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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Pat Aquino embraces new opportunity as Bossing head coach

Pat Aquino embraces new opportunity as Bossing head coach

Published Apr 12, 2026 03:08 pm

At A Glance

  • Just weeks after relinquishing his post as head coach of the Gilas Pilipinas women's national team, the amiable mentor found himself at the same position albeit this time for Blackwater Bossing in the PBA.

When a door closes, a window opens — and for Pat Aquino that couldn’t have been more true.

Just weeks after relinquishing his post as head coach of the Gilas Pilipinas women’s national team, the amiable mentor found himself at the same position albeit this time for Blackwater Bossing in the PBA.

The 54-year-old bench tactician is taking over the Bossing after previous head coach Jeff Cariaso parted ways with the Blackwater following a dismal 1-4 start in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

Although aware of the daunting task at hand, Aquino was just thankful to get another chance at proving himself.

“It was a sad part of my career nung nawala yung national team pero sabi nga when one door closes another one opens,” Aquino told Manila Bulletin-Tempo.

“I would like to thank boss Dioceldo (Sy) for the opportunity and God for this na nagkaroon pa ako ng isa pang pagkakataon to prove myself as a coach and do better. I just hope that I can fulfill the expectations of boss Dioceldo and the rest of the coaching staff,” he added.

Aquino isn’t stranger to the Ever Bilena franchise, having played for Sy during his time in the now defunct PBL.

The veteran mentor, who is more known for his contributions to the women’s national team, didn’t expect the new role but insists he’s just being a good soldier and will do his best for the job.

One of which, according to Aquino, is to change the people’s perception of Blackwater — being a ‘farm team’ and cellar dweller.

“First of all is to try to change the perspective of people thinking about the team na breeding ground kami for other teams. I think for the last three years or so yung first picks namin nasa amin pa rin,” said Aquino.

“I think very crucial yung pagpasok ko kasi medyo down nga and the thing is we need to do much better job hopefully makuha namin,” he added.

“Siyempre papasalamat din ako kay coach Jeff when I came in here binigyan nya rin ako ng pagkakataon and  the fact na he’s passionate guy and hardworking guy sana makabalik din siya.”

With a potent talent with guys like Sedrick Barefield, Christian David, Dalph Panopio and import Robert Upshaw III on his team, Aquino tries to turn things around for the Bossing beginning with their game against TNT on Wednesday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

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