Disaster struck University of Perpetual Help System DALTA even before it stepped inside the Filoil Flying V Centre on Wednesday.
Do-it-all swingman Kim Aurin is not in the venue for the Altas’ knockout match against the College of Saint Benilde Blazers in the NCAA Season 97 Seniors Basketball Tournament as he has contracted chickenpox.
It is a huge blow for the Altas as the graduating senior is averaging 14.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game for them.
During Perpetual Help’s 59-52 conquest against Arellano last Sunday, Aurin dropped 16 points, five rebounds, two assists, and a steal that drew praise from head coach Myk Saguiguit.
“Ready na sa pro si Kim Aurin,” he said. “Kumbaga sinasabi niya, ‘Magpapakita na ko, hindi na ako aasa sa Combine.’
“Siguro sabi niya, ‘Dito magpapakita na ako, para sa Draft Combine silip na silip na ako.'”
Benilde, meanwhile, is also without AJ Benson as he is serving a one-game suspension.