MANILA, Philippines – The Magnolia Hotshots switched imports for the second time in just 6 games in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Magnolia is bringing in former Cincinatti Bearcat Justin Jackson to replace Curtis Kelly as it looks to return to the winning column following back-to-back losses. 

Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero confirmed the development.

“Yes po,” Victolero told Rappler through a text message when asked if Jackson is bound to take Kelly’s place. 

The Hotshots had been on a 3-game winning streak until initial reinforcement Vernon Macklin, who left for China to pursue a guaranteed contract in the National Basketball League, was replaced by Kelly. 

With Kelly, who averaged 15.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks against 5.5 turnovers, in the fold, Magnolia lost two straight outings and saw its record fall to 3-3. (READ: Curtis Kelly accepts fate whether Magnolia brings him back or not)

Jackson is a well-traveled import, having played in Finland, Poland, Greece, Israel and the latest in Slovakia. He is a former Defensive Player of the Year in the American Athletic Conference of the NCAA Division 1 in the US. 

The 27-year-old will play his first PBA game on Sunday, June 10, as the Hotshots seek to end Alaska Aces’ 5-game winning streak at the Araneta Coliseum. – Rappler.com