Christian David eyeing to carry Bossing in playoffs this season. (PBA image)
Christian David isn’t just playing for numbers this season — he’s playing for redemption.
Now in his third year with the Blackwater Bossing, the 27-year-old forward made it clear that his mission for PBA Season 50 is simple but bold: end the playoff drought.
“This year I want to take this team to the playoffs. That’s the goal,” David declared after steering Blackwater to a dominant 107-87 victory over Terrafirma in their Philippine Cup opener Friday night at the Ynares Center in Montalban.
And he walked the talk. The Butler University product poured in 24 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and picked two steals — leading a Blackwater squad that looked sharp and composed from tip-off. David did most of his damage early, firing 18 of his points in the first half to set the tone for the rout.
“It feels good to start strong,” he said. “We’ve been working hard all offseason to build better chemistry and more consistency. I just want to lead this group by example.”
Since being drafted second overall in Season 48, David has shown flashes of brilliance, but team success has eluded him. The Bossing have yet to reach the playoffs in his tenure, a frustration he admits has fueled his offseason drive.
“Last year was kind of disappointing,” David said. “We really felt confident, but things didn’t go our way. This time, we’re more focused on finishing strong.”
Blackwater’s last playoff appearance dates back to the 2022 Philippine Cup — a statistic David hopes to erase soon. With his leadership and a renewed supporting cast, the Bossing are eyeing a legitimate run to the quarterfinals.
“Just try to lead this team to more wins,” he added with quiet conviction.
Fresh off signing a two-year contract extension, David looks ready to back that promise with action. If his season debut is any indication, Blackwater might finally have its cornerstone — and its long-awaited ticket back to postseason basketball.