MANILA, Philippines – Import Curtis Kelly played just his second game for Magnolia but he said he “won’t be surprised” if the Hotshots decide not to bring him back.

Magnolia, following 3 straight wins before the All-Star Week, has yet to find success with Kelly as it suffered an 84-86 loss to the Blackwater Elite on Wednesday, June 6. 

The loss was Magnolia’s second straight after parting ways with initial reinforcement Vernon Macklin, who left to pursue a guaranteed contract in China, and it was made worse since it was the first time the Elite won in 8 games. 

“I don’t know what the future holds for me in the Hotshots but I’m very thankful for the opportunity and whatever they decide, I’m all for it,” Kelly said. 

The 30-year-old submitted decent numbers of 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, two steals and two blocks in the defeat but it was his 6 turnovers that proved costly for the Hotshots. 

Magnolia led 84-82 against the Elite with a minute left before Kelly turned the ball over, paving the way for Poy Erram’s game-tying bucket. 

In his first game, Kelly finished with a 19 points and 15 rebounds in a 96-99 loss to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters where he shot a paltry 3-of-12 from the line. 

“I would think it’s too early to give a decision right away,” said Kelly when asked he if thinks he will return for the Hotshots. “But as far as I know, that pretty much is my deciding game. With the loss, I won’t be surprised what the outcome is.”

Although unsure of his future in the PBA, Kelly expressed his gratitude to the Hotshots, whom he considered his “family.”

“I enjoyed playing for a family. The team I played for prior to coming here in France wasn’t nothing like this as far as management and players. Here, it’s more like family. They took care of me, they looked out for me.” 

If the Hotshots ever decide to replace Kelly, they have to do it quick as they clash with the Alaska Aces on Sunday, June 10, at the Araneta Coliseum. – Rappler.com