WATCH: Interview with Best Player Ricardo Ratliffe and Coach Chito Victolero [Nov. 28, 2024]

The Magnolia Hotshots, led by import Ricardo Ratliffe, kicked off their campaign in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup with an emphatic victory over the Blackwater Bossing, dominating the game 118-100 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Thursday night.

Ratliffe, alongside his local teammates, showcased a seamless synergy that overwhelmed a determined Blackwater squad, even in the face of a stellar 42-point performance from Bossing import George King.

At 35 years old, Ratliffe continues to defy age, delivering a game for the ages as he guided the Hotshots to a much-needed victory following a heart-wrenching semifinal exit against Rain or Shine in the previous conference.

Maverick Ahanmisi, Mark Barroca, Zavier Lucero, Paul Lee, and rookie Jerom Lastimosa stepped up in critical moments, helping Magnolia gradually pull ahead while fending off Blackwater’s persistent comeback efforts. The Hotshots secured their win as they gear up for a highly anticipated clash against the Converge FiberXers on Sunday.

Ratliffe’s stat line was impressive: 30 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists, signaling his readiness for another PBA tour. The game took a concerning turn when Calvin Abueva was rushed to the hospital due to a neck injury, suffered after an inadvertent elbow from Sedrick Barefield at the 7:19 mark in the second quarter.

However, the Hotshots quickly found their rhythm, building a substantial 21-point lead during the third quarter, reaching 77-56.

King responded with ten consecutive points, rallying Blackwater to close the gap to 11. The Bossing continued their fight, narrowing the score to 87-96 with long-range shots from King and Barefield early in the fourth quarter.

Yet, following a key timeout, the Hotshots executed a nine-point run that effectively sealed the game’s outcome.

Ahanmisi led Magnolia’s local scoring with 21 points, while Barroca contributed 15, Lucero added 13, and both Lee and Lastimosa chipped in with nine apiece.

For Blackwater, Barefield provided solid support, finishing with 24 points.