MANILA, Philippines – Despite its import’s absence, Blackwater put up a great showing in the PBA Despite its import’s absence, Blackwater put up a great showing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, defeating Phoenix Super LPG 100-92 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Tuesday. In dramatic manner, the victory ended the Bossing’s miserable run and preserved their hopes of a postseason berth.

Blackwater outlasted Phoenix by working as a team without George King, who was missing due to a foot injury from their last game versus Converge. The triumph demonstrated the team’s tenacity, poise, and capacity to perform well under duress, especially during the crucial parts of the match.

Christian David and Justin Chua both recorded double-doubles, and their outstanding performances propelled the Bossing. David put on a fantastic display of versatility and tenacity with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Chua led the charge with 22 points and 11 rebounds. With 14 points and five assists, veteran guard Jayvee Casio contributed a game-changing performance, offering steadiness and leadership during pivotal moments.

Jewel Ponferada, who contributed 10 points and five rebounds, and Mike Ayonayon, who contributed 11 points and four assists, also contributed. Blackwater overcame the lack of their import to win their third game in 11 thanks to this well-balanced attack.

Blackwater showed remarkable composure and cohesion, especially in the closing seconds of the game, as the Late Surge sealed the victory. After Phoenix’s Kenneth Tuffin made a clutch corner triple that tied the score at 92-all, the Bossing answered with an 8-0 run that finally won the victory. During this stretch, Chua, David, and Ponferada worked together, demonstrating their capacity to perform well under duress.

For Blackwater, who had been inconsistent throughout the tournament, the win was a major turning point. Additionally, it kept both clubs in the running for the eighth and final quarterfinal slot by tying them with Phoenix at 3-8.

Phoenix’s road to the playoffs was made more difficult by the fact that they had lost three straight games. With a game-high 32 points and 14 rebounds, Donovan Smith put on an impressive display, and Jason Perkins scored 19 points in spite of foul trouble. Tuffin’s late three-pointer gave the Fuel Masters a fleeting hope, and RJ Jazul scored 12 points.

However, Blackwater’s timely offensive execution and fierce defense were too much for Phoenix to overcome, as they were unable to maintain their momentum in the dying minutes. Despite displaying tenacity and resolve in rallying from an early 15-point hole, the Fuel Masters were ultimately defeated by Blackwater’s well-rounded performance.

Blackwater needed the win badly as they are still vying for a quarterfinal berth. The Bossing have set themselves up for a possible tie for the eighth and final playoff slot with one game left in the elimination phase. As they aim to end the elimination phase on a good note, their performance against Phoenix demonstrated their capacity to perform well under pressure and overcome adversity.

The road to the playoffs has become more challenging for Phoenix. With a record of 3-8, they need to win their last game and pray for good outcomes in their remaining games to maintain their postseason aspirations. Throughout the competition, the Fuel Masters have displayed glimpses of promise, but their inability to stay consistent has hurt their hopes of earning a postseason berth.

] players were under more strain because of George King’s absence, but they met the challenge with a team effort that demonstrated their depth and resiliency. The team’s fight, focus, and intensity throughout the game were highlighted by head coach Jeff Cariaso, who expressed pride in the team’s performance.

The squad demonstrated both mental toughness and tactical discipline in a high-stakes match, and the triumph was evidence of Blackwater’s flexibility and ability to overcome obstacles. Their victory over Phoenix highlighted the value of cooperation, skill, and poise—qualities that will be crucial as they try to guarantee a postseason berth in the closing stages of the competition.

Both Blackwater and Phoenix face significant obstacles on their individual routes to the playoffs as the Commissioner’s Cup elimination round approaches its conclusion.