RICCI Rivero remains doubtful for Phoenix Super LPG's final game of the elimination round of the PBA 50th Season Commissioner's Cup against San Miguel.
Rivero said the laceration in his left hand that he sustained in the game against TNT is still open, forcing him to miss Tuesday's contest against Macau which Phoenix lost, 105-98.
“Actually, open [pa ang] the whole thing,” said Rivero, referring to his wounds in between his fingers. “Yung web niya, bukas siya. Mas open 'yung finger and may mga muscles and laman na kasama sa hiwa.”
The injury was caused by an interception attempt by Jayson Castro in the final moments of Phoenix's 100-97 overtime win over TNT last Friday.
“Parang laceration lang siya. Medyo mahaba and malalim kasi kita through and through,” said Rivero.
The good thing is that Rivero escaped a major injury. But even though he is hopeful of playing against the Beermen, the Phoenix star sees a full recovery won't come until the playoffs.
“Hopefully (makalaro sa next game), pero hindi pa namin sure kasi baka lumala. We are hoping na makapasok sa playoffs,” said Rivero.
Instead of competing for a Top Four spot and twice-to-beat advantage, Phoenix fell into a four-way tie for fifth place at 6-5 (win-loss) with TNT, Magnolia, and San Miguel, which ousted Terrafirma later in the night.
“Sobrang nakakahinayang. First, nothing against Macau pero guest team sila, you have to play and prove something against a guest team. I was really looking forward to playing against them. They did a good job. Our shots weren't falling,” said Rivero.
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