Blackwater were forced to play with an all-Filipino lineup versus the San Miguel Beermen on Friday afternoon, as import Alex Stepheson came down with food poisoning.
The 6-foot-10 slotman was nowhere to be found inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, as he was “too dehydrated”, as per the report of Gerry Ramos of SPIN.ph.
This is the first time Stepheson has missed a PBA game.
Stepheson is currently averaging 21.1 points, 22.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks.
Blackwater are currently among the leaders of the mid-season joust with a 5-1 record. A win over the Charles Rhodes-reinforced San Miguel would help them seize sole leadership.
Starting in Stepheson’s place at the center spot was Rabeh Al-Hussaini.
