BLACKWATER parades a new import in Jameel McKay when it plays a rejigged NorthPort side on Saturday in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
Mckay, who previously suited up for Phoenix in this same conference two years ago, is coming over as replacement for Alex Stepheson, who failed to return to the country after seeking medical treatment in the US last week.
The 26-year-old McKay is expected to arrive on Friday and hopefully, be ready to play for the Elite against the Batang Pier this weekend at the Astrodome.
He definitely has a large shoes to fill, with 6-foot-10 Stepheson helping steer Blackwater to a 5-1 record until deciding to leave for the US last week to seek medical treatment.
Stepheson, who has been suffering stomach pain since arriving at the start of the conference, could not make the planned Thursday return after being diagnosed with intestinal bacteria.
The Elite played without an import the last time and lost badly against San Miguel, 127-106.
They will have their hands full even with McKay around against the league-leading Batang Pier, who will finally parade new acquisitions Sol Mercado, Jervy Cruz and Kevin Ferrer.
Even with only an eight-man rotation, NorthPort upended Rain or Shine on Wednesday, rallying from a 25-point third quarter deficit to win in overtime, 107-105.
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