LAPU-LAPU CITY - Rhenz Abando is doubtful for Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters' EASL Final Four match against Seoul SK Knights.
Abando disclosed his health status himself during the press conference at the Dusit Thani Hotel.
READ Abando in, Juan GdL out of EASL Final Four in Cebu
Although he has already played in the Korean Basketball League following a serious injury, Abando and his team are taking a cautious approach as he felt pain in his back during his comeback game
"Not sure pero susubukan kong mag-practice ngayon," said the former Letran and UST star in an interview with Filipino reporters on Thursday, when asked if he will play in the all-Korea semifinal slated on Friday.
The Filipino import on Sunday played his first game since he suffered a lumbar fracture last December following a collision with Goyang Sono player Chinanu Onuaku. He finished with 17 points, four rebounds, and three assists in the win over Goyang.
But Abando revealed that there was a part of the game where he also fell down on the floor and felt pain once again in his back.
“Nung naglaro ako, wala naman ako naramadaman until sinabayan uli ako, bumagsak ako, ‘yun ‘yung iniinda ko ngayon. Masakit uli ‘yung likod ko,” said Abando.
However, Abando is determined to play the game as he has been spending the last couple of days resting his back, and only practiced with the team on Thursday.
“Actually, after ng game na ‘yun, hindi na uli ako nakipag-practice,” said Abando.
All eyes will be on Abando for the game against Seoul SK Knights to be played on Friday, 8 p.m. at the Hoops Dome.
The winner of the semifinal match will face either the Chiba Jets of the Japan B.League or the New Taipei Kings led by Jeremy Lim.
Abando a hit among Cebu fans
Set to play for the first time in Cebu, Abando has become a household name even in this part of the Philippines, getting a lot of selfie requests from Cebuanos.
EASL has ramped upits promotion of the Final Four with billboards that contain the face of Abando.
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