TNT KaTropa is bringing in two-time champion and 2013 Best import awardee Marqus Blakely as it looks to have a much-needed surge midway in the conference. The 29-year-old Blakely last played in the league in 2016 for Magnolia, then called Star, but was let go several games into the tournament. Blakely, who will replace the ineffective Stacy Davis, already had six previous tour of duties. He was also a part of his former franchise’s Grand-slam conquest in 2014.
TNT initially wanted former San Miguel and Rain or Shine import Wendell McKines, but it was not able to come to terms with him. This is the second time that the Texters tapped a former reinforcement of the Magnolia franchise as they also got another former Best import Denzel Bowles several years ago before letting him go just after several weeks.
TNT hopes that Blakely can resume his past success and help the team in its transitional stretch. Though they won their last game, the Tropang Texters have lost three of their last four, overall, for a 2-4 card. After coach Nash Racela sent away by the management after the slow start, Eric Gonzales is now the team’s interim coach. Luckily for Blakely and his new team, TNT’s next game is scheduled on Sept. 22, giving them almost two weeks to practice and familiarize.