Not every roster move begins with negotiations or ends with a signing. Some start and stop with a simple inquiry. Magnolia Hotshots guard LA Tenorio made that clear after revealing that the team did look into the status of former Phoenix import Jonathan Williams—but only briefly, as circumstances made the move impossible from the start.

According to Tenorio, Williams was among the names Magnolia considered while assessing possible reinforcements. The interest was genuine, but it never developed into anything more once the team learned that Williams was unavailable.

“We asked about him,” Tenorio said. “But he wasn’t an option at the time.”

That short explanation speaks volumes about how important decisions are often made. Behind every finalized signing are several players who were evaluated, discussed, and ultimately ruled out for reasons that have nothing to do with ability. In Williams’ case, it came down to timing.

Williams is no stranger to the league. During his stint with Phoenix, he established himself as a hardworking and dependable presence in the paint. He didn’t need plays called for him to make an impact. His value came from rebounding, defending, and bringing physicality—traits that naturally draw interest from teams looking to strengthen their frontline.

For Magnolia, the appeal was clear. The Hotshots have long prioritized balance and discipline, preferring imports who complement their local stars rather than overshadow them. Williams’ style of play fit that profile, making him a logical name to check on during the team’s evaluation process.

However, availability is often the deciding factor, and in this case, it shuts the door early. Whether Williams was committed elsewhere or unable to return due to personal or professional reasons, the result was the same. Magnolia had to move forward.

Tenorio, one of the league’s most experienced players, treated the situation as routine. Having seen countless import searches over the years, he understands that these outcomes are part of the job. “That’s just how it goes,” he shared. “You explore your options, and if something doesn’t line up, you adjust.”

The Hotshots did exactly that. Rather than dwelling on what might have been, the team continued scanning the market, focusing on finding someone who could adapt quickly and fit within their system. Preparation, chemistry, and consistency remained the priorities as the season approached.

Tenorio’s openness also offered fans insight into the realities of team-building. From the outside, roster moves can seem sudden or mysterious. In truth, they are often the result of many quiet conversations and quick decisions. Not every name that comes up in discussion is close to joining a team.

Williams’ continued absence from the league, meanwhile, keeps his name circulating in speculation. His previous performance ensures he remains on the radar, and it’s likely that teams will continue to monitor his situation. If circumstances change, interest could resurface.

For now, Magnolia’s path is clear. The Hotshots are focused on moving forward with the options available to them, confident that the right fit will emerge. Tenorio’s comments underscored a simple reality: success isn’t about chasing every possibility—it’s about recognizing which ones are actually within reach.

In the end, the story isn’t about a missed signing, but about a team doing its homework. Magnolia asked the question, got an answer, and moved on—an everyday occurrence in professional basketball that rarely makes headlines, but shapes teams all the same.