MANILA, Philippines – With a 5–2 win–loss record and the momentum of back-to-back wins, the San Miguel Beermen are riding high in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup going into their next match. They are not, however, taking their impending confrontation with the Blackwater Bossing lightly. Blackwater has a four-game losing run and a 1–6 record right now, but San Miguel head coach Leo Austria is concerned about their threat, particularly as teams that are close to elimination begin to feel desperate.

Austria has always made it clear that all of the league’s teams, regardless of their position, are dangerous. He believes that teams like Blackwater—cornered and desperate—present a special kind of threat. No opponent should be taken for granted, he said, especially one who is desperate for a change. Despite Blackwater’s recent struggles, Austria believes they are a squad that can pull off an upset, especially when they are under adversity.

The superpower Barangay Ginebra defeated Blackwater by a slim margin of 101–99 in their most recent game, demonstrating their ability to compete at a top level. Even though the outcome prolonged their losing skid, it also demonstrated their tenacity and ability to compete with even the best clubs in the league. Blackwater has seen moments of genius, particularly from important players like RK Ilagan, Christian David, and Sedrick Barefield. Their performance against Ginebra serves as a warning that, should the opposition let their guard down, a game-changing victory is always possible.

Austria is aware that showing complacency could have unintended consequences. Despite being favored on paper, the Beermen are unable to unwind. In the competition for one of the top four spots, which gives a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals, every victory at this point is vital. The margin of error is getting less for all teams, including those in the top half of the rankings, as the elimination round draws to a close.

San Miguel will once more rely on their core of seasoned players to spearhead the effort. Their offense and defense still rely heavily on June Mar Fajardo, whose ability to play in the paint is still a huge plus. Alongside him, CJ Perez has continuously performed well on both ends of the court, adding vital points and vigor to improve the team’s performance as a whole. Their recent success has been largely attributed to their synergy and the solid support of the rest of the roster.

However, Austria quickly moves the emphasis from individual success to team unity. Maintaining intensity during practices is very important to him because he thinks that training quality has a direct impact on game performance. According to him, athletes become complacent during practice when they let their guard down or neglect their preparation, not during a game. He wants his players to be disciplined, focused, and sharp every day, not just on game days.

Austria added that as the conference goes on, team cohesion is beginning to solidify. Roles become clearer, rotations more defined, and communication more efficient with every game. Nevertheless, he forbids any feeling of arrogance. The truth is that a single defeat can significantly change a team’s standings in a short tournament like the Philippine Cup.

Alternatively, Blackwater is not devoid of drive. Jeffrey Cariaso, the squad’s head coach, is putting a lot of effort into getting the team out of its current rut. The Bossing have improved in individual contributions, defensive effort, and ball movement despite their recent run of losses. Christian David, a rookie, is starting to settle into his rhythm, but Sedrick Barefield in particular has shown himself to be a consistent scoring option. As floor general, RK Ilagan also keeps up his consistent performance.

To save their dreams of making it to the quarterfinals, Cariaso’s team is eager to pull off an unexpected victory. Even though facing a formidable club like San Miguel is a tough undertaking, Blackwater is anticipated to arrive with vigor and urgency. Every possession counts since the squad is aware that another defeat could spell the end of their hopes of entering the playoffs.