TNT hears Kelly’s side on sudden retirement

MANILA, Philippines — The TNT KaTropa are studying their next course of action after hearing Kelly Williams’ side on his sudden retirement from the PBA.

Williams called it a career last Sept. 7. But his actions didn’t sit well with the KaTropa, who only learned of his decision through social media.

As such, TNT management considered him AWOL (absent without official leave), and asked him to explain his actions.

“He has communicated with us. We will handle this internally now,” said team manager Gabby Cui without elaborating.

Williams, who has a live contract with TNT until Dec. 31, joined the KaTropa entourage that went to the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna for a two-week training bubble. But he bolted out after the first week.

“He left our training camp without any notice or explanation,” said Cui.

The KaTropa went through the remainder of their Laguna sessions without the 2008 MVP nicknamed “Machine Gun.”

“Our bubble training went well. It was all skills and conditioning (drills) as prescribed by the PBA and IATF. Hopefully we can (do) full scrimmage soon,” said head coach Bong Ravena.

From the Laguna camp, the KaTropa have relocated to the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center inside the Ateneo campus for their training sessions.

Willams’ retirement leaves a void in the TNT frontline, giving pre-season trade acquisition JP Erram a heavier load. Jay Washington, David Semerad, Lervyn Flores and Harvey Carey will provide the backup.

“We still have to look for a big man in place of Williams,” said Ravena, who also appeared clueless on Williams’ retirement after a colorful PBA career.