The defending champions need all the help they can get.
A win is a win.
That is true, and no one is taking away Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s 90-87 victory over Blackwater Bossing on Sunday at the Philsports Arena. That being said, it’s also true that Ginebra’s third win in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup wasn’t pretty at all. Even Tim Cone admitted that his squad struggled.
One reason why they almost dropped the ball against the underdog Bossing could be the absence of Jamie Malonzo. The high-flying swingman was out after landing face first during their game against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. It was Malonzo’s first appearance this season, as he’s also been dealing with back problems.
The scary incident took place when the former De La Salle Green Archer lost his balance while executing a two-handed slam. Despite that, Malonzo chipped in 11 points.
After their win over Blackwater, Cone shared a few important details regarding his prized forward’s injury.
“Jamie had that bad fall in Friday’s game. Everybody could see he has a fat lip from landing on his mouth. And he hurt his wrist when he was falling,” Cone revealed.
“The wrist was the reason why he didn’t play tonight,” he clarified.
Malonzo’s tremendous athleticism on both ends of the floor has been a key component in his team’s success. That’s why like countless Ginebra fans, Coach Tim is looking forward to seeing Malonzo back in action.
“We won’t play until Sunday. So, we’re hoping by Sunday, he should be fine. We’re hoping that wrist will heal,” said Cone.
Ginebra would love to have Malonzo ready on Sunday as it faces another upset-minded team in the Terrafirma Dyip.
(PM)