Jayson Castro was in uniform for TNT during its Game Six clash with San Miguel in the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
But it was not because he was ready to play. Instead, it was because he just wanted to show his moral support to the team.
“Nandun ako para suportahan mga teammate ko. Gusto ko naka-uniform ako para kumbaga involved ako sa game,” said the 14-year TNT lifer.
Back in Game Five last Wednesday, Castro went for a pass but landed on Marcio Lassiter’s foot. He suffered a sprained right ankle.
“Coaches decision at the same time, yung mga PT at doctor namin kasi ilang days pa lang nagyari yun,” shared the 36-year-old former Best Point Guard of Asia.
“Sobrang may pain pa pero hopefully, bukas okay na and at the same time, makatulong sa team sa Game Seven.”
The Tropang Giga though definitely missed the services of their captain on Friday evening.
During Game Six, only Roger Pogoy was able to pump his usual numbers, scoring 31 points but on 21 shots.
Meanwhile, with Castro out, the Beermen were able to zone in on Mikey Williams, forcing him to shoot just 1-of-13 from the field for two points while committing three turnovers.
Worse, TNT suffered a 96-114 loss, sending the series to a winner-take-all.
“Di pa 100-percent pero siyempre, di pa magiging 100-percent pero Game Seven is Game Seven. Lahat ng player gusto ‘yan laruan. Ta-try ko yung best ko para makatulong sa team,” said Castro, who is averaging 16.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.6 steals in the series.
“At the same time, sobrang ganda ng nilaro nung San Miguel, esecialy yung outside shots nila. Ganda ng percentange nila. Gusto talaga nilang manalo.”
Game Seven though will be on Sunday.
And Castro will vows to do everything in his power to play that game. After all, it’s the game where legends are made.
“Yung rest naman, hindi na pinaguusapan yan. All out na kung sino gustong manalo talaga.”
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The second game of each PBA gameday is live-streamed on SMART Sports.
