PBA: San Miguel in talks with Bennie Boatwright after Justin Patton no-show

San Miguel is turning to a familiar reinforcement after import Justin Patton was a no-show in the Beermen’s game against Magnolia on Sunday.

The Beermen are now in talks with Bennie Boatwright, who previously helped San Miguel capture the PBA Commissioner’s Cup title two years ago.

“Ito, we’re waiting for Boatwright. I think maybe in the next game nandiyan na siya,” said head coach Leo Austria following their 120-101 loss to Magnolia.

Austria revealed that the team only learned Patton would not suit up about an hour before tip-off.

“He wasn’t able to practice in the last three days. Off kami nang Thursday, [then] Friday, he showed up and had some treatment, but there’s no injuries. I asked him are you going to practice? [He said] I just want to rest dahil he’s tired. I said, okay, see you tomorrow. It’s very important for us to practice because the situation right now is not cooperating with our standing. So I’m expecting he will show up today, but wala eh, kaya mahirap,” Austria added.

Where is SMB import Justin Patton? Beermen head coach Leo Austria shares the details @gmasportsph @gmanews pic.twitter.com/Tmtj7jhqYX

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) April 12, 2026

The veteran coach added that it was a frustrating situation for the team and emphasized that Patton would have to face the consequences of his actions.

Patton last played on April 8 against Rain or Shine, tallying 12 points, 17 rebounds, and two steals in a 116-112 loss.

If Boatwright completes his return, he will become San Miguel’s third import this conference. The Beermen previously fielded Marcus Lee in their first three games before Patton took over for the next three, prior to the team going all-Filipino on Sunday.

—GMA News