The Meralco Bolts secured a narrow victory in the East Asia Super League (EASL), but the win was overshadowed by a concerning injury to their key player. Star import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was forced to exit the game after twisting his ankle, casting doubt on his immediate playing future.
Game Victory Marred by Key Injury
The incident occurred during the third quarter of the match against the Macau Black Bears at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela. Hollis-Jefferson, the Bolts' primary weapon, landed on the foot of Macau's towering import, Sam Deguara, resulting in an immediate ankle tweak. The 30-year-old former NBA player was promptly helped to the locker room and did not return to the court for the remainder of the contest.
Despite the loss of their top scorer, the Bolts managed to hold on for a tense 93-91 win, showcasing the team's depth and resilience in a crucial international matchup.
Coach's Hopes for a Swift Recovery
Meralco head coach Nenad Vucinic expressed immediate concern following the game, shifting focus from the victory to the health of his player. "We're just praying his injury isn't too serious," Vucinic stated, highlighting the dual role Hollis-Jefferson plays.
The coach emphasized the importance of a quick recovery, not only for Meralco's final EASL assignment but also for the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) conference. Hollis-Jefferson is also set to play for the TNT Tropang Giga in the domestic league, making his fitness a priority for two franchises.
What's Next for the Three-Time Best Import?
The status of the three-time PBA Best Import awardee is now the biggest question for Filipino basketball fans. Ankle injuries can vary greatly in severity, from minor sprains to more significant ligament damage that requires extended recovery time.
The Bolts and the Tropang Giga will be anxiously awaiting medical evaluations to determine the timeline for his return. His performance and leadership are considered vital for both teams' championship aspirations in their respective leagues. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks inherent in professional sports, even during preseason or international tournaments.
