Only a few hours had passed since Kevin Alas was diagnosed with a re-torn right anterior cruciate ligament, Monday evening.
Though visibly downcast with the development, NLEX Road Warriors head coach Yeng Guiao needed to make the next step.
Guiao has therefore activated Lao for NLEX’s game against the Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters on Friday, February 8.
“What we are going to do right now is activate one of our rookies Kyles Lao.
“And in the meantime, we will have a fifteen day-break. Maybe we can determine what else we can do. But immediate remedy namin si Kyles,” shared Guiao.
Lao, the 29th overall pick in the 2018 PBA Draft, could not help but feel for Alas, as the stalwart has been his mentor in NLEX. But just like the Road Warriors, he too has to move forward from what happened to his brother-at-arms.
“Part of me is sad because Kevin suffered the same injury,” the UP product expressed.
“But for coach Yeng to give me an opportunity, of course, I’m happy to be activated. I think it’s a blessing in disguise for me.”
Come Friday, the 6-foot combo guard will be out there to prove that he deserves the trust that Guiao has placed in him.
“I’m up to the challenge. I know it’s a big shoe to fill. I’ll do my best to be able to contribute.”
