The Magnolia Hotshots launched their PBA Philippine Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, overpowering the Blackwater Bossing with a resounding 106-84 victory at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday. Fueled by a month-long training break and renewed focus, the Hotshots displayed exceptional team chemistry, offensive flow, and defensive grit to start the conference on a high note.
Statement Victory Built on Preparation
Coming off a disappointing quarterfinal exit at the hands of NorthPort in the last Commissioner’s Cup, Magnolia approached the off-season with renewed urgency. Head coach Chito Victolero emphasized that the team used their four-week break to tighten their defense and sharpen ball movement — a strategy that paid immediate dividends.
“We just tried to focus on our defense and ball movement during our four-week break… I think lumabas naman sa laro ngayon,” said Victolero.
That preparation was clearly evident on the court. Magnolia’s defense clamped down hard, limiting Blackwater to just 32-of-78 shooting from the field. At the same time, the Hotshots’ crisp ball movement led to 21 assists, which fueled an effective motion offense that kept the Bossing chasing all night.
Balanced Scoring and Strong Starts
The Hotshots stormed out of the gate with a commanding 37-point first quarter, immediately seizing control of the game. Their relentless tempo continued throughout, highlighted by a 32-point third quarter that built a commanding 85-66 lead heading into the fourth.
Leading the scoring charge was Zavier Lucero, who notched 21 points and 7 rebounds, showcasing both athleticism and control. But he wasn’t alone — four other Magnolia players scored in double figures:
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Ian Sangalang: 15 points, 10 rebounds (double-double)
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Mark Barroca: 14 points
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Jerom Lastimosa: 13 points
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Calvin Abueva: 13 points
The depth and balance across the roster were crucial, as 15 players saw action — a testament to Magnolia’s team-oriented strategy and commitment to depth.
Blackwater’s Lone Bright Spots
On the other side, Christian David was a bright spark for Blackwater, pouring in 31 points, while Sedrick Barefield added 24 points and 7 assists. However, no other player reached double digits, exposing the Bossing’s lack of offensive support and bench production.
Compounding their woes was a shaky defense that allowed Magnolia to dictate the pace from the outset. Blackwater struggled to contain Magnolia’s fast-paced offense, resulting in wide scoring gaps that grew with each quarter.
Victolero Credits Teamwork and Hard Work
Coach Victolero was full of praise for his team after the dominant win, particularly for their effort during the pre-conference build-up.
“Credit to the players. They did a very good job… We tried to give emphasis now on the little things na medyo nakalimutan namin nu’ng last conference.”
Magnolia’s hustle showed in other key metrics as well, including a +18 advantage in rebounds and a +12 edge in inside points — both indicators of the team’s physicality and aggressiveness.
Looking Ahead
The Hotshots’ win sends a strong message to the rest of the league — this is a team determined to bounce back. With a reenergized roster, tactical improvements, and a deep bench, Magnolia has set the tone early in the PBA Philippine Cup. Meanwhile, Blackwater will need to regroup quickly, find more consistent contributors, and patch defensive lapses if they hope to contend in future matchups.
Final Score:
Magnolia Hotshots – 106
Blackwater Bossing – 84
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