Bol Bol turned Pat Aquino’s long-awaited PBA head coaching debut into a one-man showcase, powering TNT to a 99-94 win over Blackwater in the Commissioner’s Cup on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The 7-foot-3 import delivered a dominant all-around performance that proved too much for the Bossing to overcome.

Bol erupted for 48 points on an efficient 15-of-24 shooting while adding 11 rebounds and seven blocks, controlling both ends of the floor throughout the contest. He also went 17-of-21 from the free throw line, with his final two conversions sealing the victory in the closing seconds.

The win lifted the Tropang 5G to a 4-2 record, tying them for fourth place in the standings alongside Barangay Ginebra. It also marked back-to-back victories for TNT, following a previous win that kept their momentum intact.

Bol Bol dominates as TNT holds firm

TNT controlled most of the game behind Bol’s offensive outburst and defensive presence, establishing a double-digit lead that reached as high as 17 points. His ability to score inside and stretch the defense made it difficult for Blackwater to mount consistent stops.

Despite the heavy reliance on Bol, TNT still found key contributions from its supporting cast, with Jayson Castro adding 10 points as the only other player in double figures. The team’s composure down the stretch allowed them to maintain control even as the pressure intensified.

Head coach Chot Reyes said they expected a tough matchup, especially with Aquino taking over the Blackwater bench. He noted that the team prepared for a grind, acknowledging the uncertainty brought by a new system being implemented by the opposing coach.

Blackwater rallies but falls short in Aquino debut

Blackwater showed resilience late in the game, erasing a 17-point deficit to come within a single point at 95-94. The comeback sparked hopes of a dramatic turnaround that could have given Aquino a winning start in his first game at the helm.

The Bossing even had an opportunity to take the lead, but Sedrick Barefield missed a crucial three-point attempt under pressure from Bol. TNT responded with a decisive 4-0 run, highlighted by a basket from Calvin Oftana and Bol’s clutch free throws to close out the game.

Robert Upshaw led Blackwater with 36 points, while Dolph Panopio added 17 markers. Barefield and Christian David chipped in 12 points each, providing support in the late-game rally that ultimately fell short.

The loss dropped Blackwater to 1-5 in the standings, extending its losing streak to three games. Despite the defeat, the Bossing showed signs of promise under Aquino, particularly with their ability to fight back and challenge a surging TNT squad.