San Miguel keeps door open for Bennie Boatwright return, but KBL stint poses as challenge 

Winning back-to-back All-Filipino championships has barely slowed San Miguel Beer’s momentum, but even as celebrations fade, planning for the next grind is already underway.

Coach Leo Austria confirmed that the Beermen remain actively engaged with Brandon Boatwright, the familiar import who once powered the franchise to a Commissioner’s Cup title. The interest is mutual, but timing—more than desire—has emerged as the biggest obstacle.

Boatwright is currently locked into his campaign with Daegu KOGAS Pegasus in the Korean Basketball League, a commitment that stretches well into April. That calendar clash creates uncertainty for San Miguel, with the PBA Commissioner’s Cup scheduled to tip off on March 11, just days after the All-Star festivities.

“May communication kami. But the problem now with him is his last game in the eliminations sa Korea will last until April 8,” Austria said moments after guiding San Miguel to another championship. 

“Mag-uumpisa tayo March 11, so probably mami-miss niya at least yung four games.” 

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San Miguel could’ve avoided any and all complications with regard to getting Bennie Boatwright as its import for the next conference if it had signed him prior to his deal with Daegu in the Kbl.

Due to the scheduling conflict, I think they’d rather go in another direction.

— PBA insider (@PBAinsider) February 3, 2026

It’s a familiar dilemma for a franchise that knows exactly what Boatwright can bring. The 29-year-old import was the backbone of San Miguel’s Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup run, anchoring a finals victory over Magnolia in six games. A reunion would immediately strengthen the Beermen’s bid to chase yet another title.

Still, Austria made it clear that nothing is guaranteed. The realities of overseas contracts and shifting priorities mean the situation could change quickly.

“We don’t know yet, pero baka mamaya biglang mag opt-out siya. So talagang kinakausap namin siya,” the veteran coach said.

Despite the uncertainty, optimism remains. Austria shared that Boatwright has expressed enthusiasm about the idea of wearing a San Miguel jersey once more—if circumstances allow.

“Last time na nakausap siya ng manager namin (Gee Abanilla), ang sabi niya he’s excited to come back here with San Miguel,” Austria said. “But we’re not sure kung siya talaga. Of course, may commitment yung sa kanyang team.”

For now, the Beermen wait—balancing patience with preparation. Whether Boatwright’s return aligns with the Commissioner’s Cup timeline or not, one thing is clear: San Miguel is already thinking ahead, intent on keeping its championship window wide open.

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