Jeron Teng assured that he’s fine after dislocating a finger during Converge’s PBA debut against Rain or Shine in Sunday night’s Philippine Cup opener.
The 28-year-old fell onto the floor as he tried to get past Vince Tolentino during an inbound at the 8:07-mark of the final period. Play was stopped a few seconds later and the FiberXers’ staff immediately attended to his aide.
He was able to stand up on his own and then headed to the team’s bench, where he received further treatment. And he managed to return to the game with 4:22 remaining and with his side up 69-66, checking in for rookie Kurt Lojera.
“Sumabit sa jersey so na-dislocate siya,” Teng told reporters, with his left ring finger heavily taped. “Just fortunate enough na may med team kami rito sa Converge and they were able to align it. And, I was able to return.”
The injury hardly slowed down Teng. In fact, he even helped steady Converge’s ship down the stretch, giving his side a two-point lead with 23.5 seconds left through a lay-up by using his affected hand.
His efforts, unfortunately, went for naught. The FiberXers’ bid for a winning debut got spoiled by Beau Belga and dropped a 79-77 decision.
Teng didn’t hide his frustration over the loss, which saw his side meltdown after leading by seven with 3:32 left. But all that they can do now is to charge it to experience as they hunt for that breakthrough win for the new club.
“Siyempre frustrated dahil we really wanted to get this win for Converge,” said the four-year pro, who finished with 23 points and 13 rebounds.
“But, you know, we can’t cry over spilled milk. We just have to learn from this painful loss. And help us get ready for the next game,” he added.
For now, though, Teng has his focus on recovering before plunging back into action on Friday against Magnolia at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
“I have time to rest and be ready for the next game.”
