Kelly Williams had been working silently under the radar even if he is already past his prime, and his efforts paid off at a moment Talk ‘N Text needed it the most.
With the Tropang Texters battling the Kia Carnival, whose Hamady N’Diaye covers massive space around the rim, the only way for Talk ‘N Text to counter was spreading the defense.
Williams rose as a hero in the all-important encounter, drilling all but one of his three-point attempts as the Tropang Texters prevailed, 94-85 to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Back to back threes in the fourth quarter also widened the gap for the Tropang Texters as they fended off a rally from the Carnival.
“I am just in the right position and the guys are rewarding me with the pass so I make a shot. We are doing the best that we can and at this point it is a waiting game,” Williams said.
Williams was only averaging 5.4 PPG in the conference and 18 percent from downtown heading into the match, and the explosion couldn’t come at a more perfect time as he helped the team with their playoff hopes.
The forward finished with 14 points and 5 rebounds in 20:30, and was a plus-10. In addition, all of his attempts from long rang were uncontested, surprising the Carnival that he still had the stroke.
“That’s good scouting on their part and I know guys are going to give me space so I am smart enough to take the shot. Coach gives me the confidence. If they close out, I will make my adjustment,” Williams added.
Through it all, Williams is just grateful to still be in the league and competing at a high level despite how the competition has grown.
“It’s been a while. Every day is a fight. The past six years have been a test from different angles,” he shared. “I am just thankful I can still compete at a high level with these guys. There is so much talent and it has grown. I am just blessed to play with this team.”
