Vernon Macklin to play last 2 games for Magnolia before leaving for China

MANILA, Philippines – Vernon Macklin will play his last two games for the Magnolia Hotshots in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. 

The bruising import, according to his sports agent Sheryl Reyes, is bound for China after being offered a guaranteed contract in the National Basketball League.

“Vernon Macklin unfortunately will play his last game this 5/18. He was given a guaranteed contract with the NBL China that he can’t pass up on,” Reyes wrote on Twitter.

Vernon MAcklin unfortunately will play his last game this 5/18.. he was given a guaranteed contract with the NBL China that he can’t pass up on,we would like to thank Boss AL, Mr.Pardo for understanding our situation and allowing him to go,he is sad but needs this for his future

— Sheryl Sanchez Reyes (@FemaleAgentSR) May 14, 2018

Macklin, who steered Barangay Ginebra to the finals of the mid-season conference in 2013, has been a steady force for the Hotshots, submitting averages of 22 points and 15 rebounds in Magnolia’s first two games.

The Hotshots are 1-1 with the 31-year-old import after dropping their confererence opener to the Phoenix Fuel Masters, 87-89; and toppling the GlobalPort Batang Pier, 92-87. 

“We would like to thank Boss Al [Chua], Mr [Rene] Pardo for understanding our situation and allowing him to go, he is sad but needs this for his future,” added Reyes.

Macklin will reinforce the Hotshots on Wednesday, May 16, against the Columbian Dyip at the Araneta Coliseum before suiting up for the last time against the Meralco Bolts on Friday, May 18, at the same venue.

Magnolia has yet to announce who will replace Macklin. – Rappler.com