No hard feelings for Blakely as Fuller takes over Blackwater import spot

MANILA, Philippines—Marqus Blakely was on the outside looking in three games into his stint with Blackwater in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

The two-time PBA champion was relegated to the sidelines in favor of Aaron Fuller but despite the awkwardness, Blakely said that he’d like to maintain a professional relationship with his fellow import.

“I think it’s already awkward enough to have two imports on the team, and I’ve known him before we’ve been in this situation,” said Blakely. I don’t want to make it seem like we’re fighting or I’m not being friendly with him.”

Fuller was already with the Elite before the start of the conference but rolled his ankle in a scrimmage preventing him to suit up for Blackwater in the East Asia League: The Terrific 12 in Macau.

The injury forced Blackwater to enlist Blakely on short notice to beef up its squad in the invitational tournament.

Blakely said he understands the Elite’s decision to give Fuller a chance to play and the decision on who will be Blackwater’s import for the rest of the conference will fall solely on the management.

“It was a fairness decision, having played my last game against NorthPort, the coaches felt like they needed to give Aaron a chance to see if he’s healthy and if he’s able to play,” said Blakely, who averaged 11.7 points, 11.3 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 2.3 steals, and 4.7 blocks in  three games.

A team insider said that Blakely’s contract has already ended and that playing for one more gam would mean a new contract should be forged and agreed upon.

“It was a decision that had to be made by the organization, me or Aaron. There’s no hard feelings,” said Blakely. “We’re both competing for a job and that’s what it is.”