Barangay Ginebra’s Asian import, Kim Jiwan was a non-factor in the second half of the Kings’ quarter-final battle against Alaska Friday night after aggravating an injury.
The Kings dropped a 114-108 decision against the top-seeded Aces as their season came to a close, and Kim was left disappointed as he could have helped from an offensive standpoint.
“My knee was hurt seriously in the second half and I wanted to help so I am disappointed. It was not just today. It [IT Band] was painful before this game and I think it got worse,” Kim disclosed through an interpreter.
“I thought about it when I was sitting on the bench. I was trying to figure it out if I could help the team at full strength but I thought it would be better to sit out because I didn’t want to be a problem to the team. I wanted but it was a serious problem,” he added.
Kim finished with only five points in less than 12 minutes and took only three shot attempts.
With the team’s departure, the Korean wing man can’t helped but sport a dejected look, although is grateful for an opportunity he will cherish.
“I want to say thank you. These are great fans that always support the team. I will never forget these and also to my staff and teammates who gave me a warm welcome and made me feel at home. I would definitely want to return.”
*Photo from PBA Images
