What was initially deemed as a minor injury has now become a major one for Cliff Hodge.
After apparently bruising his left knee in a collision with Willie Wilson in the Meralco Bolts-Phoenix Fuel Masters bout last February 14, Hodge’s injury was raised to an MCL sprain and has ruled him out for the rest of the 2017-18 Philippine Cup.
“Cliff Hodge is out for the tournament,” confirmed Bolts head coach Norman Black. “He has an MCL sprain.
“So, he’ll be out for at least four to six weeks.
“He should be back around the end of March, or early April,” the decorated tactician furthered.
Black made the announcement moments after their 84-82 squeaker against rivals Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, Sunday night at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
This is yet another setback for the six-foot-four banger, as he had just recovered from a foot injury, which made him miss the first four games of the season. His campaign ended with norms of 7.8 points and 5.2 boards.
Hodge’s absence will be a huge blow for the Orangemen’s playoff aspirations. However, the Grand Slam coach already has his troops prepared for this.
“I know it sounds cliché, it sounds corny, but, you know, we just said this is our championship. Let’s just play our hearts out,” added Black.
“What do we have to lose? Let’s give it our best shot and see what happens.“
