MANILA, Philippines — Macau defeated Blackwater, 123-119, in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday night, but remained outside playoff contention as the tournament neared its final stages.
The win marked a late-season victory for the Macau Black Knights, a guest team in the Philippine Basketball Association, despite an overall record that has kept them low in the standings.
Macau Black Knights led by as many as 13 points before Blackwater Bossing mounted a fourth-quarter rally to briefly take the lead, 116-115, after a basket by Bradwyn Guinto.
Macau regained control in the closing minutes after Damian Chongqui scored to put the team ahead, followed by a layup from Jenning Leung that extended the lead to 120-117 with just over two minutes remaining. Macau maintained the advantage down the stretch to secure the win.
Coach Marcus Elliott said the team focused on development rather than standings as its playoff chances diminished. He said the team aimed to build confidence and improve despite the loss of postseason prospects.
Blackwater also remained in contention for a quarterfinal berth but failed to complete its comeback in the final minutes of the game.
