Magnolia Hotshots kept their hopes alive for a spot in the PBA Governors Cup by defeating Blackwater, 110-95, on Wednesday at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo. Magnolia was led by Calvin Abueva's 27 points and 13 rebounds, while Antonio Hester contributed 22 points and 20 rebounds.

Despite falling behind by as much as 24 points in the third quarter, Blackwater mounted a comeback with Baser Amer and Jayvee Casio combining for six three-pointers that cut Magnolia's lead to just six points, 89-95, in the fourth quarter. However, Magnolia responded with a 10-2 run, led by Rome dela Rosa and Abueva, to secure the win.

Magnolia finished the eliminations with a 7-4 record and now waits for the outcomes of the other games to determine whether they will be included among the top four teams with a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals or among the lower-ranked teams.

Magnolia coach Chito Victolero said that his team is ready to take on the playoffs, regardless of their ranking. "At the start of the conference, we're down 0-3 right away and most of the people are doubting na baka hindi kami umabot sa playoffs. But at least in the last eight games we're 7-1. Right now, I think 'yung character nandiyan na, nabi-build," added Victolero.

Meanwhile, Blackwater suffered their ninth straight loss, dropping their record to 1-10. Shawn Glover led the team with 22 points, while Casio had 20 points and 10 assists and Amer added 16 points.