One of the most interesting storylines entering the 2019 Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup All-Star Game was the reunion between La Salle’s Andrei Caracut, Aljun Melecio, and Justine Baltazar with their former running-mate Ricci Rivero.
Rivero was named as a starter for the exhibition game together with Caracut.
However, Rivero – who is now studying at and playing for the University of the Philippines – did not suit up.
“Simula nung pagkabalik namin, hindi pa ‘ko nakaka-ensayo sa amin,” shared Rivero.
The 21-year-old guard sprained his right ankle during the 2019 FIBA 3X3 Asia Cup. Up to today, he is still recovering, making him miss the All-Star festivities.
Meanwhile, Caracut, the team captain of La Salle, wanted one last run with Rivero before the UAAP hostilities begin. However, it was not meant to be.
“Nasanay na rin ako na ‘di ko siya kasama maglaro,” shared Caracut, who led Team UAAP’s 86-83 win over NCAA. “I’m sure kung nandoon siya, ganoon pa rin.
“Nakaka-miss din.”
Though he wasn’t able to play with his teammate for two years, Caracut, who had a team-high 12 points, still relishes the opportunity to play with the student-athletes from the other UAAP schools.
“Para sa akin lang, basketball ito. Inayos ko talaga baka mainjured ako. Masaya din kasi nakasama ko yung mga kaaway ko sa UAAP,” the All-Star Game MVP said.
“Nagkaroon ng bagong kaibigan. Magandang experience.”
