Photo credit: PBA

Just when TNT Tropang 5G found itself in danger of losing momentum in its title-retention campaign, the team quickly found an answer in familiar reinforcement Chris McCullough.

The defending champions moved fast to sign the former import after 7-foot-3 center Bol Manute Bol suffered a partial Achilles tendon tear during Game 2 of their semifinal series against the Meralco Bolts.

According to TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa, McCullough had just completed his stint with the Taoyuan Taiwan Beer Leopards in Taiwan when TNT reached out to him.

Lastimosa said the timing worked perfectly since the 31-year-old import was already preparing to fly back to the United States on Monday before the offer came in.

The TNT official also revealed that resident import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson played a key role in bringing McCullough back to the franchise, saying the two are close friends and that Hollis-Jefferson personally suggested him as Bol’s replacement.

McCullough wasted no time joining the team and was already spotted courtside at the Mall of Asia Arena during Game 3 of the semifinals.

TNT escaped with a tight 77-75 victory after Roger Pogoy knocked down the game-winning three-pointer in the closing seconds to give the Tropang 5G a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Before settling on McCullough, TNT reportedly explored other replacement options, including Marquese Chriss and Darius Days, but both were unavailable on short notice.

Naturalized player Malick Diouf was also considered for Game 3, but necessary documents from the Games and Amusement Board, FIBA release, and special working permits were not processed in time over the weekend.