The Blackwater Bossing made a significant move by acquiring Filipino-American guard Sedrick Barefield as the second overall pick in the 2024 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft. Since joining Blackwater, Barefield has not only lived up to the high expectations but has also become a driving force behind the team's resurgence in the ongoing PBA Season 49 Governor’s Cup. This resurgence is a remarkable turnaround from their rocky start to the competition, where they struggled to find their footing.
Barefield’s impact on the court has been undeniable. The former National Basketball Association (NBA) G League star has brought his scoring prowess, leadership, and playmaking skills to the Blackwater lineup, making him a pivotal figure in their recent successes.
His standout performances were instrumental in Blackwater’s three-game winning streak, which ended only after a tough loss to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. During this winning stretch, Barefield demonstrated his scoring abilities and knack for stepping up in crucial moments, establishing himself as a reliable asset for the team.
One of Barefield’s most notable performances came during Blackwater’s 123-111 victory over the Phoenix Fuel Masters. In this game, he posted a conference-high 32 points, shooting an impressive 55 percent from the field. His ability to score in various ways, including driving to the basket, mid-range jumpers, and three-point shots, showcased his offensive versatility and made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Barefield’s scoring outburst against Phoenix not only led Blackwater to victory but also set the tone for the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.
Following this, Barefield continued his strong play against the NLEX Road Warriors, contributing 14 crucial points in a 110-99 win. His performance included two pivotal three-pointers that helped set the pace of the game, allowing Blackwater to control the momentum and secure another important win. Barefield’s ability to deliver in key moments underlined his value to the team, as he consistently found ways to impact the game beyond just scoring.
Over the two-game stretch, Barefield averaged 23 points, 1.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal, earning him the prestigious PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week honor for the period of September 3 to 8. This accolade highlights Barefield’s significant contributions to Blackwater’s improved performance and recognizes his role as a leader on the court.
BOSS SED[RICK] NYT NYT 💤
— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 11, 2024
Second overall pick Sedrick Barefield is better than advertised after leading the Blackwater Bossing to a perfect 2-0 week, earning him the PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week honors. #OneSports #PBASeason49 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/tK5b6uu7Bs
Reflecting on his Player of the Week recognition, Barefield expressed gratitude and emphasized the importance of trust within the team. "I feel like I’m just being more of myself and that just comes with trust in my guys, my teammates, and coach. I mean, everybody is doing their job at a high level. We have a lot of guards that make the game easy, like Kib Montalbo and RK Ilagan, and so it’s just fun playing with those guys," Barefield said. His statement underscores the camaraderie and teamwork that have been crucial to Blackwater's recent successes, illustrating how the collective effort of the squad amplifies individual performances.
At 27 years old, Barefield’s journey in professional basketball has been marked by persistence and adaptability. His path to the PBA was not straightforward; after going undrafted in the NBA, Barefield spent time honing his skills in the G League, where he played for teams such as the Oklahoma City Blue and the Texas Legends. His experience in the G League not only sharpened his skills but also prepared him for the physical and mental challenges of playing at a high level in the PBA. Barefield’s diverse background and international experience have enriched his playing style, making him a dynamic addition to the Blackwater roster.
Barefield’s recognition as Player of the Week was well-deserved, as he edged out stiff competition from some of the PBA’s best players, including June Mar Fajardo of the San Miguel Beermen, Chris Banchero of the Meralco Bolts, and Stephen Holt of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. This acknowledgment by the PBA Press Corps, a group of seasoned journalists who cover the league, further cements Barefield’s standing as one of the most promising talents in the PBA today.
Looking ahead, Blackwater currently finds itself positioned fifth in their group with a 3-4 win-loss record. The team is hopeful that Barefield’s impressive form will continue as they prepare to face the Phoenix Fuel Masters again on Sunday, September 15. The upcoming game represents another opportunity for Barefield to showcase his skills and for Blackwater to climb the standings in the Governor’s Cup. With Barefield leading the charge, the Bossing have every reason to believe they can continue their upward trajectory.
In the ever-competitive landscape of the PBA, having a player like Sedrick Barefield offers Blackwater a significant advantage. His ability to score efficiently, create opportunities for teammates, and provide leadership on and off the court makes him a valuable asset. As the season progresses, Barefield’s role in Blackwater’s success will likely grow, and his performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
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