During the game, the Cardinals outrebounded the prone Red Lion frontline, 56-41. Leading the way for Mapua is reigning NCAA MVP Allwell Oraeme with 12 points and 24 rebounds. However, Oraeme, who has been bugged with a nagging knee injury all throughout the season, was taped on his left elbow as well.
Compared to last season, the 20 year old Nigerian’s shooting norms are down. 13 games into the season, he is currently shooting 50 percent from the field compared to 56 percent from the stripe. In addition, his free throw percentage is down 10 percent this year as his injury problems have caused him to lose lift in his shot.
“Hindi 100 percent si Allwell ngayon,” Mapua head coach Atoy Co said about his big man. “Pero he’s trying his best.”
“Di pa siya 100-percent. May iniinda pa.”
Co then shared that Oraeme’s injury, that stemmed from the Premier Cup, is taking long to heal because he is playing through it. The Cardinals are currently a full game behind the JRU Heavy Bombers for the last seat in the Final Four race. Losing Oraeme for even one game might spell the difference in the race.
“Mabagal lang ang recovery kasi nilalaro eh. Pero kung ipapahinga, mas mabilis ang recovery. We cannot afford to not play him,” the PBA legend bared.
“Pag wala si Allwell, delikado kami.”
Oraeme though is willing to sacrifice his body for his team and the Mapua community.
“I’m not thinking about it [the pain],” Oraeme said. “I just want to win.”
“That’s what he’s doing now. He’s playing with a hurt knee,” Co closed.
“Ngayon, he had 24 rebounds. Pero kung 100-percent yun, tingin ko kakayanin namin.”
