KEITH Datu showed what exactly he can bring to the table when finally off and running again for Rain or Shine.
The rookie big man finished in double figures and played a part in the huge final quarter run by the Elasto Painters to turn the tide against the NLEX Road Warriors, 113-101, in Friday’s PBA Commissioner’s Cup game at the Philsports Arena.
The No. 4 overall pick of the last draft finished with 11 points in just his second game with the Elasto Painters, converting 3-of-7 from beyond the arc, all of which came during that killer stretch that won it for the Elasto Painters.
READ Nakulam? Guiao baffled by rookie Keith Datu's unexplained illness
Datu later on confirmed he contracted pneumonia and had been hospitalized, forcing him tomiss five of Rain or Shine’s seven games so far in the conference.
“I had a flu that developed into pneumonia. I was in the hospital and just got out last week and I had just a week of practice,” he said.
“I know it’s just my second game, but I’m grateful for Rain or Shine for its patience and allowing me to be healthy again.”
Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao admitted being puzzled by the health condition of Datu, who usually played great in practice, but would come in sick during the game.
Guiao even went to the extent of saying the rookie player could have been hexed.
“Nag-sacrifice kami ng mga manok at baboy para makalaro siya ngayon,” said the Rain or Shine coach in jest. “Pero palagay ko okay na siya. Very rare talaga yung nangyayaring ganun.
“Hopefully hindi na maulit. Pati siya hindi niya mainitindihan kung ano yung nangyari.”
Guiao rued the number of games Datu missed as the rookie could have helped a lot in the matches that Rain or Shine lost.
“Ngayon pa lang nakita natin kung ano yung kaya niyang gawin,” said the veteran mentor.
Datu vowed he’s back in harness and ready to do anything in his capacity as Rain or Shine makes a late push for a playoff spot.
“I don’t think my lungs are 100 percent ready yet, but I’m feeling good,” said Datu. “I’m grateful Rain or Shine allowed me to recover enough and get back.”
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