BLACKWATER coach Pat Aquino admitted replacing Robert Upshaw is an option after the heavyset import sustained a calf injury in a game against Barangay Ginebra.
Upshaw sat out Tuesday's PBA 50th Season Commissioner's Cup contest against Macau Black Knights due to the recurring injury and Aquino said keeping Upshaw will depend on the result of tests performed by doctors.
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“We will be talking about that tomorrow,” said Aquino when asked if the coaching staff is considering a replacement for Upshaw, at least on a temporary basis. “We will be assessing. I'm getting the results of the MRI by tomorrow.
"If that shows na hindi siya puwede, we have to find somebody else.”
The injury is a downer for Upshaw, who has garnered rave reviews about how fit he is to Blackwater's system. Ginebra coach Tim Cone even coined the nickname ‘Mr. Upshaw' for his ability to take advantage of his height and heft.
The Bossing hold a 2-8 win-loss record but still have a slim chance of making it to the quarterfinals with two games left.
Meanwhile, Upshaw is hopeful that he can play in Blackwater's next game against Meralco on Sunday.
“That's what we are working towards. A lot of rehab. A lot of therapy. Just trying to figure out what's the situation is,” Upshaw said.
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