Magnolia Hotshots are determined to get back on track when they face the struggling Blackwater Bossing on Friday, November 14, in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Hotshots are coming off a tough loss and want to regain momentum to strengthen their bid for a top-four finish, which comes with a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. At 4-2, Magnolia needs a victory to tighten its grip on contention while trying to shake off the sting of its last defeat.

Meanwhile, Blackwater is desperate to halt a five-game losing streak that has dragged the team down the standings. With a 1-5 record, the Bossing face an uphill climb but still have a mathematical chance of sneaking into the playoffs if they can build late-season momentum.

Hotshots ready to unleash energy after extended break

Magnolia coach LA Tenorio and his players were left frustrated after a narrow 92-94 loss to San Miguel Beer on Nov. 7, a game where they erased an 18-point deficit only to surrender a late lead in the final minutes. The Hotshots were eager to immediately bounce back, but their scheduled game against TNT last Sunday was postponed due to Super Typhoon Uwan.

The extra rest, however, may work to their advantage. With fresh legs and renewed focus, Jerom Lastimosa, Zavier Lucero, Ian Sangalang, and Mark Barroca are expected to lead the charge. Tenorio’s system has emphasized balance and poise, and Magnolia will rely on its veterans to steady the pace against a Blackwater side hungry for redemption of its own.

Blackwater banking on Barefield’s brilliance and young core

For Blackwater, coach Jeffrey Cariaso is preaching patience and consistency as his team tries to regain form. “We just have to get better every game, work together, and trust the process,” he said.

Sedrick Barefield has been a bright spot, erupting for 33 points in their last outing. Christian David rediscovered his shooting touch with 18 points, while Dalph Panopio contributed all-around numbers with 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Despite their efforts, the Bossing still fell short in a 94-99 defeat to Converge, unable to contain Alec Stockton and the frontcourt duo of Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar.

Cariaso hopes his trio can find rhythm early against Magnolia’s disciplined defense. A win would not only stop their skid but also restore some confidence as the elimination round enters its critical stretch.