CJ Cansino’s early exit after tweaking his knee midway through the second quarter certainly changed the complexion for University of Santo Tomas.
The Growling Tigers was a different team with Cansino out, as the game went on a 22-point swing from the prolific rookie’s departure.
UST started strong and took a 36-26 lead with 5:57 left in the second quarter but could not sustain it with Cansino out, bowing to University of the Philippines.
“Sa nakita naman natin, ganoon ang nangyari. May nagbago, may nagkulang. Sinabihan ko sila na step up tayo, gawin natin ang best natin, yun lang,” said UST skipper Marvin Lee who finished with 26 points, making 7 of 15 attempts from the 3-point line.
Cansino is averaging 13.7 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.9 assists, while also helping push the tempo off the rebound and create for his teammates.
UST head coach Aldin Ayo was proud of how his team fought until the end.
“Sinubukan ni Toby Agustin, sinubukan ni Josh Marcos na mag step up kaso, they tried their best naman eh,” said Ayo.
“Sumubok din sina Renzo (Subido), Marvin. Kahit ganito yung resulta I’m proud of them. It was, still, they fought hard,” he added.
Cansino will undergo tests but regardless of the result, his season is done as he’ll be sitting out their match against Ateneo.
“Oo. During the halftime (nagusap kami). 7:30 nga mag MRI yun. Kahit anong resulta ng MRI, di namin papalaruin yung bata. He had a good season.”
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