Jordan Heading, nursing back spasms, still wound up with 11 points in TNT’s Game 1 duel with Rain or Shine in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.
Jordan Heading remains day-to-day for TNT.
This despite his seeing action in the Tropang 5G’s 98-91 win over Rain or Shine in Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay Wednesday, June 25.
Apparently, the Filipino-Australian has yet to be at full strength after aggravating his back spasms during the Tropang 5G's quarterfinal faceoff against twice-to-beat-armed Magnolia.
Jordan Heading plays for more than 15 minutes for TNT in Game 1 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
[WATCH: TNT Tropang 5G edge Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to take Game 1 of semis | PBA Highlights]
“His minutes will depend on his condition,” said TNT coach Chot Reyes.
“He’s not even joining our practice. He’s only joining our shooting and very light walkthroughs.”
The good news is: Heading is getting better.
“My back felt better than it did last game against Magnolia,” said the former Gilas gunner, who saw action for over 15 minutes.
“It (recovery) was good. I was literally throwing everything at it: chiropractor, physios, everything we could think of… I’m doing whatever I can to make this spasm go down.”
[WATCH: PBA: Andrei Caracut says RR Pogoy remains thorn in Rain or Shine’s side in semis G1 loss]
Despite the pain, Heading still managed to produce 11 points and three rebounds in his first semifinal appearance in the league.
That’s why Reyes couldn’t help but admire his ward’s determination.
“The good thing with Jordan is he’s a gamer. When we need him, he’s there. He's putting it out,” said Reyes.