Tankoua returns from injury, admits he’s still holding back

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

San Beda center Donald Tankoua played his first game in the NCAA after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament back in Season 92, but the jovial big man knows he’s not yet at his capable best.

“My first game? It wasn’t that good, because it’s been a long time that I didn’t play,” said Tankoua Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena after his Red Lions dispatched San Sebastian 76-67 in Season 93’s opener.

Tankoua played more than 16 minutes in his return and finished with 10 points, eight rebounds, and one block.

The 6-foot-6 big man said he’s quite happy that he’s back playing the game, but he knows he can’t push himself too far at the risk of aggravating the injury.

“I feel good I’m playing again,” said Tankoua. “But I’m still holding back because I’m not at a hundred percent.”

Helping Tankoua with San Beda’s interior responsibilities is Arnaud Noah who started at center and Javee Mocon who finished with 15 points and 13 boards.

And Tankoua couldn’t help but admire his teammates for holding the paint while he waits to get to full recovery.

“They’re very good,” said Tankoua of his big man teammates. “Like last year, I got injured and they stepped up, they played well, got the championship, they’re all good.”