Pat Aquino’s fire signals culture shift as Blackwater searches for breakthrough

The arrival of Pat Aquino in the PBA isn’t just a coaching change for Blackwater—it’s the beginning of a demanding reset.

This comes in the wake of Jeffrey Cariaso’s resignation as head coach, prompting the franchise to turn to Aquino in hopes of steering the team in a new direction.

In his first game at the helm during the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, the Bossing fell short against TNT Tropang 5G, 99-94. But beyond the result, the game offered a glimpse into the identity Aquino is trying to build, one anchored on accountability and relentless effort.

“I don’t know if I’m gonna change or what, but the thing is, I just need them to know how I feel about the game,” said Aquino, staying true to the passionate sideline presence that defined his successful stints in the collegiate ranks with National University and the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s program.

That same fire was evident throughout Tuesday’s contest, where Blackwater showed more fight compared to its previous outings. 

While the team still couldn’t close out down the stretch, the tighter margin was a step forward from a crushing 56-point loss to Rain or Shine and another narrow defeat prior.

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ON THE UP-SHAW!

Robert Upshaw III pulls off a slick crossover, bumps off Bol Bol, and finishes with the slam for Blackwater Bossing against TNT Tropang 5G in their PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup clash.#PBA50 #PBA50LID pic.twitter.com/hAB5dqrwyx

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) April 14, 2026

Against TNT, the Bossing found themselves battling a potent duo in Calvin Oftana and import Bol Bol, who erupted for 46 points to steer his squad to victory. Still, Blackwater’s resistance hinted at early buy-in from players adjusting to their new coach’s system.

For Aquino, the transition to the professional ranks has been eye-opening.

“Hirap pala mag-coach sa PBA. It’s so hard. I mean, a lot more adjustments to go. I know we fell short, but may little changes–I think you saw naman, may konting pagbabago, but we need more of that,” the 54-year-old admitted.

Now sitting near the bottom of the standings with a three-game skid, Blackwater is navigating both growing pains and growing expectations. Aquino, however, is embracing the process alongside his players.

“As I’ve told them before, I’m gonna work, and you’re gonna work. And, I’m a winner, you should be winners. I think they’re getting it. Hopefully, they get used to it, all the shouting that I’ve been doing and everything,” he said.

The challenge now is translating that mindset into wins.

Aquino and Blackwater gets another chance to reset on April 17 when they face Phoenix Super LPG at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

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