BACOLOD – Japeth Aguilar has become wary of his team’s chances in the PBA All-Star Game 2024 this weekend following unexpected personnel changes.
The Ginebra star will no longer have Christian Standhardinger on his side as the All-Star Game top pick got sick prior to the delegation’s departure Thursday.
Due to the very late notice, Team Japeth won’t have any replacement for him — indeed a tough blow for a crew that’s already without 2021 league MVP Scottie Thompson and Phoenix lead guard Tyler Tio due to injuries.
It also means that the two-time BPC will not be competing in the Obstacle Challenge for big men, with his slot now taken by Kings rookie Ralph Cu.
“If ever, ang labas niyan, ako lang ‘yung big,” Aguilar told reporters shortly after the All-Star presser Thursday at The Upper East House here.
Photo by PBA Images
It’s a tad similar to the situation that Team Japeth had in the 2023 All-Star Game, when June Mar Fajardo was replaced by Raymond Almazan when the San Miguel main man suffered a left knee injury in the EASL Champions Week.
But it’s surely much more difficult this time with three key cogs out, although the veteran big man is banking on replacements Roger Pogoy and Aris Dionisio as he aims to go back-to-back in the All-Star Game on Sunday.
Team Japeth also won the last edition by beating Team Scottie, 140-136, in Passi and Aguilar hopes to keep his record pristine as an All-Star captain.
“Naalala ko last year, nawala si June Mar, si Raymond ‘yung pumalit … kanina kausap ko si Coach Jorge, sabi ko, ‘Wag niyo nang palaurin si June Mar kasi injured din naman ata’,” the 37-year-old said with a chuckle,
“Anyway, dito namain si Aris Dionisio and Roger Pogoy. Sila ‘yung last-minute additions,” added Aguilar, who’s bound for his ninth All-Star appearance.
Regardless, Aguilar and the rest of the squad will all be out to enjoy the whole All-Star festivities in the City of Smiles from March 21-25.
The All-Star Game will be on the 24th at the University of St, La Salle Coliseum.
