Sedrick Barefield reacts to losing ROTY to RJ Abarrientos: ‘Zero media votes is crazy’

Blackwater Bossing guard Sedrick Barefield broke his silence regarding his PBA Rookie of the Year loss to Ginebra guard RJ Abarrientos.

Speaking during the 31st PBA Press Corps Awards Night, Barefield expressed his dismay with getting no media votes, but gave props to Abarrientos for bagging the award.

“You know, hats off to RJ, he won the award,” Barefield said. “Zero media votes is crazy, but I’m grateful.”

Barefield, who averaged 8.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds last season, had to settle for the All-Rookie Team after receiving no votes for the top rookie award.

Abarrientos was hailed the Rookie of the Year after recording 855 votes, while Rain or Shine’s Caelan Tiongson finished runner-up with 428 votes.

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PANOORIN: Pinarangalan sina RJ Abarrientos Kainoa Ballungay Jordan Heading, Justine Baltazar Juami Tiongson at Sedrick Barefield bilang miyembro ng All-Rookie Team para sa PBA Season 49 sa PBA Press Corps 31st Awards Night na ginanap ngayong Lunes sa Novotel Manila, Araneta City. pic.twitter.com/YjOVTZAidt

— Fastbreak (@fastbreaknewsph) October 13, 2025

Despite this, Barefield said he is thankful for the All-Rookie Team honor and hopes that he and Balckwater can continue improving in the league’s historic 50th season.

“Definitely, it feels validating towards the work we put in last year, despite, you know, struggles with injuries. So, I’m thankful. Hopefully, just continue to move forward and continue to get better,” he said.

The 27-year-old did not play for the Bossing’s first game last Friday, when they crushed Terrafirma Dyip, 107-87, due to a shoulder injury, but confirmed that he will return against the Meralco Bolts on Wednesday, Oct. 15.

“Yeah, just dealing with the ongoing shoulder injuries.“I just wanted to make sure I was back 100% before I return to action. The support has been amazing, unwavering. I’m super grateful and I’ll continue to give my best this season,” he said.

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