Kelly Williams Turns Back Time as TNT Outlasts Terrafirma in OT Thriller

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by Lou Reyes

TNT 5G veteran big man Kelly Williams shoots a three-pointer.
TNT 5G veteran big man Kelly Williams shoots a three-pointer. Photo: PBA Images.

Who says age slows you down? 

Kelly Williams, the 43-year-old warrior and former MVP, defied time and expectation once again, torching the nets with eight triples to lift TNT Tropang 5G past the stubborn Terrafirma Dyip, 109-95, in overtime Friday night at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

It was vintage Kelly on full display: poise, power, and that old-school fire. Williams dropped 28 points and pulled down 11 rebounds, saving the Tropang 5G from what could’ve been a stunning upset. Three of his biggest shots came in extra time, where TNT opened with a 10-0 run that sealed the deal and stretched their winning streak to three straight, tying Rain or Shine atop the PBA Philippine Cup standings at 5-1.

But even with the victory, head coach Chot Reyes wasn’t entirely thrilled.

“We got the win, but honestly, it doesn’t feel like it,” Reyes admitted. “Terrafirma completely outplayed us for most of the game. If Kelly doesn’t catch fire, we’re not talking about a win right now.”

TNT head coach Chot Reyes (in white).
TNT head coach Chot Reyes (in white). Photo: PBA Images.

Indeed, Terrafirma came out swinging behind Jerrick Ahanmisi’s relentless offense and a scrappy defensive effort that kept TNT on its heels for most of regulation. Ahanmisi poured in 26 points, including two clutch free throws that forced overtime at 92-all.

Williams, however, wasn’t about to let the game slip away. With every long-range bomb, the veteran reminded fans why he’s still one of the most respected figures in Philippine basketball.

“Coach and my teammates just told me to shoot with confidence,” said Williams. “At this stage of my career, I just want to make the most of every opportunity and help the team however I can.”

Williams’ performance wasn’t just heroic, it was historic. At 43, he became the oldest player in PBA history to hit eight three-pointers in a single game.

Terrafirma's Brent Paraiso (38) drives against TNT's Roger Pogoy (16).
Terrafirma's Brent Paraiso (38) drives against TNT's Roger Pogoy (16). Photo: PBA Images.

Backing him up were Roger Pogoy with 21 points, Calvin Oftana with 15, and Rey Nambatac with 14. Jio Jalalon added hustle to the mix, tallying 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals, becoming the 36th player in league history to join the 500 steals club.

Despite a gallant fight from Brent Paraiso (13 points, 11 rebounds) and the Dyip’s spirited showing, Terrafirma dropped to 1-5, undone by TNT’s championship poise and Williams’ timeless brilliance.

For one magical night, the clock turned back and Kelly Williams reminded everyone that legends don’t fade; they just keep finding new ways to win.

The Scores:

TNT 109 - Williams 28, Pogoy 21, Oftana 15, Nambatac 14, Jalalon 7, Ganuelas-Rosser 6, Ferrer 6, Khobuntin 5, Heading 5, Galinato 2, Enciso 0, Nieto 0, Aurin 0.

Terrafirma 95 - Ahanmisi 26, Paraiso 13, Sangalang 10, Mariano 7, Bravo 7, Zaldivar 7, Hernandez 7, Rivero 5, Olivario 4, Hanapi 3, Catapusan 3. 

Quarterscores: 16-20, 35-49, 67-74, 92-92; 109-95