PAUL Lee won’t be around as Magnolia tries to extend its unbeaten record in the PBA on Tour.
The long range gunner is currently in the US to attend the special service for his late grandfather, making him miss the 5 p.m. encounter between the streaking Hotshots and second-running Rain or Shine Elastopainters at the Lamberto Macias Sports and Cultural Complex.
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He left for California a day after Magnolia’s 94-65 rout of San Miguel for the team’s eight straight win in the preseason.
Lee will be in the US for one more week but is set toplay the team’s last two outings.
“Makakalaro na ako sa last two games namin. I think may team meeting din kami nun,” he said.
Lee’s absence comes at a time when Calvin Abueva is finally back in harness for the Hotshots after missing their first seven games to rest a hurting knee.
Abueva finally saw action in the preseason against the Beermen, finishing with nine points and a game-high 16 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine will try to become the first team to deal Magnolia its first loss, buoyed by its thrilling 106-100 win over TNT the last time.
Forward Nick Demusis however, is a game time decision after the Fil-Am injured his thumb in the game against the Tropang Giga.
But Demusis joined the trip in Dumaguete and brought his stuff in case the coaching staff decides to play him.
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