(Second update)
June Mar Fajardo did not suit up in Game 1 of the best-of-7 PBA Philippine Cup finals Sunday night at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
And that would likely be the same case when San Miguel and Alaska lock horns anew in Game 2 Tuesday, at least according to the Beermen camp’s latest observation of Fajardo’s injury.
“According to the doctor, he will be back but we don’t know when. (The doctor) told me it will not require surgery,” Austria said after the Aces came back to steal Game 1, 100-91.
The mentor added while Fajardo’s ACL and PCL are both intact, there is still swelling on his injured knee, and Austria will not risk playing his big on Tuesday for Game 2.
“Let’s see if he can play on Tuesday. But if he is not 100 percent I will not (play him)”, Austria added.
Austria will not rush Fajardo’s return to the hardcourt, prioritizing his overall health, as well as the team’s long-term success.
“What is important is his health and speedy recovery, win or lose.”
