A few minutes into the first drill of Gilas’ first official practice, Kelly Williams slipped on a wet spot at the Meralco Gym.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 8) — TNT KaTropa forward and 2008 Philippine Basketball Association Most Valuable Player Kelly Williams announced his retirement on Monday.
“It’s with gladness and sadness that I announce my retirement from basketball. I couldn’t have predicted that I’d have the kind of career I was able to experience,” said the 38-year old Williams on his Instagram post.
The Oakland University standout was first discovered by veteran basketball coach Chot Reyes in 2004 while playing in a tournament in his native state of Michigan.
Williams brought his talents to the Philippines by first playing with the Magnolia team in the now-defunct Philippine Basketball League.
With his high-leaping ability and on-court brilliance, Williams was selected first overall in the 2006 PBA Draft by Sta. Lucia Realtors.
In his stay with the Buddy Encarnado-managed franchise, Williams won several accolades including Rookie of the Year, All-Rookie Team member, All-Defensive Team member, Best Player of the Conference, and his lone MVP award. He also won a title with the Realtors during his MVP season in the 2007-08 PBA Philippine Cup.
In 2010, Williams together with Ryan Reyes and Charles Waters were traded to the Talk N’ Text franchise. He won five championships with the Manny Pangilinan-owned franchise.
Williams is also a five-time All-Star, two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion, three-time Mythical First Team member, and four-time Mythical Second Team member.
He also suited up with the national team, having played in the 2007 and 2011 FIBA Asia Championships.
In 2009, Williams was diagnosed with thrombocytopenia, a rare blood disorder.
“I turn the final page of this chapter and I fear not. I did the best I could with what I had, now I can lay my career to rest with peace in my heart,” he added.
