WATCH: Calvin Abueva Highlights [Magnolia vs TNT | 2021 Philippine Cup | September 5, 2021]
Magnolia failed in its bid to post back-to-back victories and instead absorbed its second defeat in the last three outings by falling to league-leader TNT, 83-76, in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup, Sunday at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
Kelly Williams played his best game since coming out of retirement by posting 13 points on 4-of-9 shooting from the field including 3-of-3 from 3-point country to go along with 15 rebounds, 2 steals and 3 blocks as the Tropang Giga improved to 6-0 and a step closer to clinching an outright spot in the quarterfinal round.
“We know that they are a hard pressing team and they have a lot of active guards and their bigs are very aggressive and skilled,” said the 39-year old Williams during the post-game presser.
“We had our hands full coming in and we just want to focus on making sure we are smart with the ball, making the right decisions and getting the ball as much as we can,” he added.
Jayson Castro led TNT with 17 points while rookie Mikey Williams added 14.
Calvin Abueva paced the Hotshots with 23 points while Paul Lee added 13. Ian Sangalang contributed 10 points and 10 boards while guards Mark Barroca and Jio Jalalon chipped in 10 and 9 markers, respectively.