JASON Perkins finally returned to action for Phoenix in the PBA Philippine Cup after suffering from a bad case of the flu.
But the 32-year-old big man said he’s not yet really 100 percent healthy despite posting his usual numbers in the Fuel Masters’ 109-97 upset of defending champion Meralco Bolts.
In his first game in the all-Filipino conference, Perkins went 6-of-12 from the field and finished with 19 points and five rebounds as he helped Phoenix get its first win after starting its campaign with back-to-back losses.
READ: Ricci's career-high 20 points spark Phoenix upset of Meralco
Perkins however, said he’s far from being back to his usual self.
“Yeah, I’m not feeling good. I’m not playing my best. I’m not feeling well for a while,” he stressed.
Good thing, the Fuel Masters won’t be having their next game until April 26 in Zamboanga City against Magnolia.
That’s a good 10-day rest for Perkins to get better and be healthy.
“I’m not physically where I want to be. But I just keep on trying,” said the two-time UAAP champion from De La Salle.
The long break, according to Perkins, will also allow the Fuel Masters to polish their game after losing consecutively against Terrafirma and Converge prior to winning against the Bolts.
But being back and playing against with the rest of the team is enough to bring a smile back on Perkin’s face despite his health issue and what he termed as lapses committed by the Fuel Masters.
“I’m glad to be back with the guys. I’m just glad to be playing basketball again,” he said. “Life is basketball. It really makes me happy, so I don’t take it for granted.”
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