Screams and shouts filled the Ninoy Aquino Stadium after Blackwater concluded their four-game losing streak, with 96-86 on the board, keeping Terrafirma from experiencing a win this PBA 49th Season Commissioner’s Cup.

The league’s current best scorer George King had the usual biggest contribution to the Bossing’s glorious win with an impressive log of 27 points, 12 rebounds, and three steals. Joining him were Mike Ayonayon and Justin Chus who stepped up and improved their 2-7 record. 

Blackwater’s win is very significant considering their recent shy against Ginebra. This sparks quarterfinal inclusion for the team despite their current standing. 

In an interview, Bossing’s head coach Hedd Cariaso mentioned that their losing streak motivated them to better their gameplay and eventually garner more needed victories.

Although their opponent has a winless record, Blackwater’s win did not come on a silver platter. During the mid-fourth quarter, Dyip did not surrender and was able to close the gap to five points, 84-79. 

With 1:55 on the clock, Bossing arguably locked in the win with a 13-point lead, 96-83. When the buzzer struck, 96-86 was on the board and favored the Blackwater Bossing.

Despite the discouraging loss, Brandon Edwards, as usual, had a big game with 29 points and 16 rebounds, while Louie Sangalang entered with 17 points and seven rebounds for Terrafirma Dyip.

Just like Blackwater, TNT Tropang GIGA also came home victorious on January 15 night after overcoming the NLEX Road Warriors, 94-87, continuing their five-game winning streak in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

TNT’s dependable big man Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was the game’s MVP with stunning logs of 23 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists. This impressive victory moved the team to the second spot on the leaderboard, based on winning percentage, and they were on track to snag one of the top two places in the quarterfinals.

Like their previous wins, RR Pogoy contributed 18 points while Calvin Oftana chipped in 14 nods. 

Despite the underwhelming record of the Road Warriors, TNT coach Chot Reyes still took their opponent seriously, suggesting that they are still “fighting for survival.”

The leading contender for the Best Import this season still showed his dominance among his peers after he garnered an outstanding 33 points, 20 rebounds, and four blocks. Kevin Alas, on the other hand, proved once again that he’s a threat to the Tropang GIGA, contributing 16 points. 

The night’s victors, TNT Tropang GIGA and Blackwater Bossing, are certainly preparing for their next games and are equally aiming to achieve the same result. 

TNT will go head-to-head with Barangay Ginebra on January 17 at the Philsports Arena. As many know, the two already clashed in the finals of the season-opening Governors’ Cup, with Tropang GIGA dominating the Gin Kings. TNT will definitely play with confidence and added motivation, especially with their current streak, not to mention that the team they are up against is a similar team they have already beat before.

Before their highly anticipated brawl, Ginebra had a huge win against Blackwater Bossing and will surely do everything they can to keep the momentum going.  

Meanwhile, Blackwater Bossing will play against the Converge FiberXers, which is among the leading teams this season. Fans may witness their clash on January 19 at the Ynares Arena in Antipolo.