“Trying to make the most of every opportunity”: Paul Zamar steps up in Blackwater’s win over San Miguel

The Blackwater Bossing have endured a difficult stretch in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, managing just two wins in their first eight outings to languish near the bottom of the standings at 11th place. For a team trying to rebuild and establish consistency, the early part of the conference has been marked by uneven performances, injuries, and constant lineup adjustments.

But on Wednesday, April 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Blackwater found a much-needed breakthrough. In a statement victory, they stunned the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen, 126–120, in a high-scoring affair that showcased both their offensive firepower and renewed sense of urgency.

Import R. Upshaw led the charge with 35 points, while Sedrick Barefield added 29, forming a potent one-two punch that kept San Miguel’s defense on its heels all game long. Yet beyond the headline numbers, it was the performance of veteran guard Paul Zamar that provided one of the night’s most compelling storylines.

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Coming off the bench, Zamar delivered 12 points in just under 18 minutes—an efficient and timely contribution that underscored both his experience and readiness. For the 38-year-old, the performance carried extra weight, as it marked a significant step in his return to meaningful basketball after a long and uncertain road back from injury.

“This is almost my first real competition in almost two years. Na-ACL ako, I was out for one year, last conference I was just playing spot minutes, I didn’t know kung maglalaro ako,” Zamar said in a media interaction.

Zamar’s journey back to the court has been anything but straightforward. After recovering from a serious ACL injury, he found himself without a contract when the NorthPort Batang Pier opted not to re-sign him. For a player at his age, such a situation often signals the end of a career. However, opportunity knocked once more when Blackwater franchise owner Dioceldo Sy extended him a lifeline, offering him a roster spot and a chance to prove he still belongs.

💯 Now age 38, Paul Zamar is making the most of this latest – and perhaps, last – chance to be a key contributor. #PBA50https://t.co/gqVHgs0ekx

— SPIN.ph (@spinph) April 23, 2026

Even with that opportunity, minutes were not guaranteed. Under then-head coach Jeff Cariaso, Zamar saw limited action, as the team prioritized developing younger talent. The veteran understood the situation, acknowledging both the team’s direction and the realities of his stage in his career.

Circumstances shifted, however, when injuries sidelined key guards RK Ilagan, Dalph Panopio, and Jed Mendoza. At the same time, a coaching change brought in Pat Aquino, opening the door for Zamar to carve out a larger role.

“I know the direction of coach Jeff, he wants to play the younger players. Now kay coach Pat, nabibigyan ako ng opportunities. Everyday, every practice, my approach is to get myself ready. We never know when an opportunity will come. I’m trying to make the most out of every opportunity na binigay sakin,” he added.

Over his last two appearances in the conference, Zamar has averaged 13 points and 2.5 assists in roughly 20 minutes per game—numbers that reflect both his efficiency and his ability to contribute despite limited playing time. More importantly, his presence has added stability and leadership to a team still searching for rhythm.

For Zamar, every game carries added significance as he approaches what could be the final chapter of his professional career. While his future with the franchise remains uncertain, his focus is firmly on the present—making the most of every minute he gets on the floor.

“I don’t know kung ano plano ng management sa’kin after this but I’m trying to enjoy the moment, enjoy every practice, every game. But of course I want to play, I want to finish the season then we will take it from there. Hopefully ma-extend, hopefully. I will just have to be ready,” Zamar concluded.

As Blackwater looks to build momentum from their upset win, all eyes now turn to their upcoming matchup against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Friday, April 24, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. With renewed confidence and contributions coming from both stars and veterans alike, the Bossing will aim to climb out of the lower rungs of the standings—and perhaps rewrite the narrative of their season.

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