Blackwater coach Jeff Cariaso is excited about the trio of Barefield-David-Panopio heading into PBA Season 50

As the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) gears up for its landmark 50th season, Blackwater Bossing head coach Jeff Cariaso is placing his focus on developing a promising young core that he believes could be the franchise’s foundation for the future.

Cariaso, who enters another season at the helm of the rebuilding franchise, is optimistic about the potential of the trio of Sedrick Barefield, Christian David, and rookie Dalph Panopio — players he views as integral to the Bossing’s long-term vision. Though the three have yet to share the floor in a competitive setting, Cariaso sees enough talent and character to be hopeful about what’s ahead.

“We know that they will be the cornerstones of our team,” Cariaso said during PBA Media Day. “We also know that they are young. So we have to go through the growing pains, the learning curve. That’s going to be natural for us.”

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Barefield, a dual American-Filipino guard with international experience, impressed in his debut season and is expected to take on a larger leadership role. David, a 6-foot-6 wing who played U Sports basketball in Canada, is currently recovering from a shoulder injury but is expected to be a major contributor once fully healthy. Panopio, on the other hand, is a fresh addition via the draft and brings European experience after playing professionally in Italy.

Cariaso acknowledged that each player is still adjusting to the PBA’s style of play but noted their raw skill and dedication to learning.

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“What’s nice and exciting is these three are very exciting to watch,” said the 53-year-old coach. “They have the talent, they have the skills. So it’s really now just about being ready game in and game out, and understanding how the game is played here in the Philippines — especially for Dalph.”

Cariaso also singled out Panopio and fellow rookie Jack Cruz-Dumont for praise, lauding both for their strong performances during Blackwater’s preseason tune-up games. The two guards are quickly earning the trust of both the coaching staff and their teammates.

“We were able to draft two young guys who easily gelled with the team,” he said. “They connected quickly, not just on the court but off it as well, because of the kind of character they have. They’re good kids. They love the sport. Basketball has been their life. But at the same time, they’re just good people — and for a coach, that’s your dream player.”

With veterans like Rey Suerte and RK Ilagan providing stability, Blackwater’s youth movement reflects a long-term rebuild rather than a win-now approach. The team finished in the bottom half of the standings in recent seasons, but Cariaso and his staff are confident that patient development will eventually bear fruit.

“There’s going to be a learning curve,” Cariaso admitted, “but if we stick together and keep building, we’ll get there.”

The PBA’s 50th season tips off later this month with the Philippine Cup, followed by the Governors’ Cup and the Commissioner’s Cup, stretching all the way through December 2026. All 12 teams have retooled in what’s expected to be one of the most competitive seasons in league history.

With a fresh wave of talent and a clear vision under Cariaso’s leadership, Blackwater Bossing may not be immediate title contenders — but they’re a team worth watching.

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