The Blackwater Bossing are now 2‑0 to start the PBA Governors’ Cup after holding off the Magnolia Hotshots, 89‑81, on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. It was Blackwater’s second straight win over Magnolia, as it also beat the Hotshots in the early stages of the last conference.
What Happened?
The game unfolded like a heavyweight title bout, with both teams refusing to budge in a tightly contested first quarter that ended with Magnolia holding a slim 20‑19 lead. Blackwater opened up in the second frame, with Dalph Panopio’s five‑point cluster to start the quarter paving the way for a 25‑18 advantage for the Bossing. At halftime, Blackwater was ahead, 44‑38.
Magnolia responded after the break, with import KJ Buffen sparking a 24‑21 third quarter for the Hotshots to enter the final canto down by just three, 65‑62. In the fourth, neither team backed down, with the Bossing fending off every Hotshots rally—until a personal 7‑0 burst by Buffen put Magnolia ahead, 81‑79, with 3:58 remaining.
That would prove to be Magnolia’s final stand. Back‑to‑back baskets by Kentrell Barkley jumpstarted a closing 10‑0 run that sealed the win for Blackwater.
Who Stood Out?
After a slow start, Barkley came on strong in the second half to finish with a team‑high 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He also delivered those back‑to‑back baskets when the Bossing needed them most. Reigning PBA Player of the Week RK Ilagan was impressive as well, tallying 20 points for his second straight solid outing.
Magnolia, meanwhile, drew a solid bounce‑back performance from Buffen, who finished with a game‑high 32 points, including six treys. He also had 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Unfortunately, he did not get consistent support from the locals.
3 Keys to the Game
- Defense. In a defensive battle, the Bossing did just a little better. They clamped down at the right time, holding the Hotshots scoreless in the final 3:58. Overall, Blackwater’s defense limited Magnolia to 37.7% shooting and forced 16 turnovers.
- Strong finish. For a moment, it looked like the Hotshots were ready to impose their will after taking an 81‑79 lead in the fourth. But Barkley steadied the Bossing with a tough inside incursion that sparked a game‑ending 10‑0 blitz.
- Endgame poise. Blackwater’s strong finish had much to do with the poise the team displayed—something that appears to be improving under Pat Aquino. With Magnolia making its move down the stretch, the old Bossing might have crumbled. Not this team. Rather than fold, they reclaimed the lead and fended off the Hotshots.
Next Up for the PBA
Saturday, July 18, 2026 | Ynares Center – Antipolo
- Terrafirma Dyip vs. San Miguel Beermen (5:15 p.m.)
- Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs. Meralco Bolts (7:30 p.m.)
