In an exciting game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Bossing emerged victorious over TNT with a score of 87-76, taking the lead in the PBA Philippine Cup. RK Ilagan and Troy Rosario played pivotal roles in the win, with Ilagan contributing 15 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and two steals, while Rosario led the scoring with 20 points.
Under the leadership of coach Jeff Cariaso, the team displayed a strong team effort, especially after the early departure of Nambatac due to a sprained right ankle. Christian David, Bradwyn Guinto, James Kwekuteye, and Jaydee Tungcab also made significant contributions to the team’s success.
Cariaso praised the players for their sense of purpose and teamwork, leading Blackwater to its best start since the 2019 Commissioner’s Cup. The victory also marked an improvement from the previous conference, where the team only secured one win in their first two games.
For Ilagan, the game was a personal bounce back from a scoreless performance in the previous match. With guidance from the coaches and veteran player JVee Casio, Ilagan stepped up and played a crucial role in securing the win for the team.
The game saw a 13-0 run by Ilagan, Guinto, and Rosario in the fourth quarter, propelling Blackwater to an 85-65 lead. Calvin Oftana led TNT with 21 points, but it was not enough to secure a victory for the team.
In other PBA action, NLEX (1-0) and Terrafirma (1-0) are set to face off in a match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today, with both teams aiming to secure a share of the lead in the league.
