Kevin Alas is slowly regaining his old form heading into the new PBA season, which starts March 8.
The 6-foot guard has shown much progress after he and NLEX saw action in the three-day Phoenix Super Basketball Tourney, held at the Upper Deck Sports Center in Pasig City.
There, Alas averaged 11.3 points per match — including 18 in a convincing 104-89 victory over the Alaska Aces last Wednesday — as he helped the Road Warriors sweep the pocket tilt.
“Maganda naman progress ng recovery ko. One year mahigit na rin. Happy ako,” said Alas moments after NLEX’s 104-97 win over Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters in the meet’s last day, Friday.
The 28-year-old returned to NLEX late last season following a lengthy road to recovery after suffering an ACL tear — the second time in his career — during the 2019 Philippine Cup.
Alas admitted that it has taken its toll on him mentally, but it became easier for him after seeking professional help.
“Actually, part nung progress ko is going to a sports psychologist,” the six-year pro shared. “Malaking tulong sa akin ‘yun this second ACL ko kasi ‘yung first ACL ko, akala ko I am very tough.
“Pero nung second ACL ko… I think personally, ‘yun ‘yung pinaka-na-down ako sa buong basketball career ko, so malaking bagay na seeing a sports psych. Ang dami kong natutunan.”
So now, Alas’ modest goal is to finish the whole season, since he couldn’t complete the last two.
“Short-term goal ko is makatapos ng isang buong season.”
