Already down to just 11 student-athletes to start the season, the Mapua Cardinals are in danger of losing their top gunner for a stretch.
“Wala na nga akong players, na-injured pa,” lamented head coach Atoy Co after Mapua’s 55-66 loss to San Beda.
The Cardinals, a team that are currently on a five-game losing streak, experienced another big blow as their top gunner Andoy Estrella suffered a knee injury.
According to Co, Estrella, who is averaging 16.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, is suspected to have torn his MCL during practice a day before their match against the San Beda Red Lions, Friday afternoon.
“During scrimmage, natulak yung isang kakampi niya, si [Almel] Orquina, tapos ang nabagsakan niya si Andoy [Estrella], yung tuhod. Ang suspetsa ko is MCL. Kasi wala naman daw lumagutok pero after na injured siya, he had a hard time walking,” Co disclosed.
They are still waiting for the results of the MRI scan, but the Mapua mentor admitted that it will likely take a long time for Estrella to fully recover.
“Diba usually ‘pag MRI eh matagal recovery,” the PBA legend quipped.
Aside from Estrella’s injury, Leo Gabo, despite seeing action today, was also nursing a sprained right ankle which was incurred the same practice.
“Si Gabo, pag landing niya na sprain sa scrimmage namin,” furthered Co about Gabo, who posted norms of 10.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in five games played.
Unlike Estrella, Co assured that Gabo will be back in time for their next game against the JRU Heavy Bombers on August 22.
The tall obstacle the Cardinals are trying to climb this season just got a whole lot taller.
By: Danine Cruz
