Kelly Williams remains doubtful to see action on Friday night when TNT takes on Magnolia in Game Two of the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
This is still because of the back injury the 39-year-old center suffered in the series opener last night. It has left the Tropang Giga ‘very concerned’ despite their masterful performance that led to an 88-70 win over Magnolia.
“Doubtful for tomorrow,” team manager Gabby Cui wrote in a text message to Tiebreaker Times a day before the showdown.
Williams got hurt past the midway mark of the third canto. He stole the ball and quickly ran down the court for a breakaway dunk but faltered mid-air.
He tried to lay it in but missed, although he was able to save the possession. Williams then dished it to Kib Montalbo for the deuce. He appeared to be limping on his way to the bench as the opposition called for a timeout.
The former MVP was subbed out at the 5:21-mark and never came back. He left with 10 points, six rebounds, three assists, and a steal in over 17 minutes.
He had to be carried out of the DHVSU Gym on a stretcher due to ‘severe back spasms,’ the league’s report said. Williams was later sent to the hospital.
Photo by PBA Images
Williams has already been discharged, although Cui said that the 15-year veteran has yet to be checked by a specialist.
“Kelly was released from the hospital but he still needs to see a specialist,” the amiable executive wrote.
