PBA Rumors: Blackwater should be sold to?



 Rumors Swirl Around Blackwater Bossing Sale: Is It Time to Talk to Family Brand Sardines?

A new round of PBA franchise sale rumors is heating up—and this time, the buzz points straight to the Blackwater Bossing.

Veteran insider Snow Badua stirred speculation with another cryptic post:
“Owner of a black team reportedly meeting different businessmen to offer his ball club. Clue: wait nauuhaw ako.”

Fans were quick to connect the dots. “Black team” is a clear reference to Blackwater, whose color scheme and team name are a giveaway. And the phrase “nauuhaw ako” (I’m thirsty) only adds fuel to the fire, possibly hinting at the “Bossing” name tied to beverages, and perhaps even the franchise’s long-running struggle to quench its thirst for wins and relevance.

Blackwater Has Been in the Rumor Mill for a While

This isn’t the first time Blackwater has been in the middle of sale rumors. The franchise, owned by Ever Bilena, has had a rocky history in the PBA, often finishing at the bottom of the standings. Despite a few bright spots in recent years—like the emergence of Rey Suerte, Ato Ular, and even Brandon Bates—the Bossing haven’t managed to shed their image as perennial cellar-dwellers.

Whether due to performance, business priorities, or both, whispers about a possible sale have persisted in league circles.

Is It Time to Talk to Family Brand Sardines?

Here’s the thing: if Blackwater is seriously considering selling, the most logical move is to approach Universal Canning Inc., the company behind Family Brand Sardines.

Universal Canning has already submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) to join the PBA, according to Commissioner Willie Marcial. Their interest in entering the league is formal, committed, and clearly motivated by long-term vision. Unlike other suitors who have come and gone (like Starhorse Shipping), UCI has the brand muscle and sports infrastructure, thanks to its Zamboanga Valientes team, which already competes in multiple leagues.

Buying an existing franchise like Blackwater would be the fastest and most straightforward way for UCI to enter the PBA. It bypasses the complications of expansion and helps the league maintain its 12-team format.

A Sale Could Spark a Fresh Start

For Blackwater fans, the possibility of new ownership might feel bittersweet. But after years of underwhelming results, it could be a chance to hit the reset button. A franchise like Family Brand Sardines could breathe new life into the team—with fresh investment, improved talent acquisition, and renewed ambition.

And for the PBA as a whole, it would mark another hopeful sign in what many believe is a brewing renaissance—especially if more serious ownership groups step in.

Final Thought

If the rumors are true, Blackwater shouldn't waste time knocking on random doors. Universal Canning already wants in. Why not let them in through Blackwater’s door?

Comments