Kent Salado tears MCL, out for remainder of Aspirants’ Cup

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After playing just one game, Kent Salado will miss the remainder of the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup as he re-injured his MCL on his right knee.

Officials from Go for Gold confirmed the news on Tuesday as the 22-year-old will leave a huge hole in the Scratchers’ campaign this first conference of the developmental league.

The speedy playmaker went for a layup at the 2:48 mark of the third quarter but could not get the proper lift as he fell hard to the ground and struggled to get up.

“(Salado) said that he heard something pop. We’re very worried,” relayed Scratchers coach Charles Tiu after Go for Gold scored the 75-68 victory over Gamboa Coffee Mix-St. Clare on Monday at Pasig City Sports Center.

His injury leaves the bulk of the heavy lifting to J-Jay Alejandro, Matt Salem, and ex-pro Jerwin Gaco.

Salado finished with nine markers, five boards, four assists, and three steals in his only game for Go for Gold.

The Cagayan de Oro native suffered a partial MCL tear on the same knee late in the Chiefs’ campaign last NCAA Season 93.

Salado, though, is hopeful that he’ll be ready for Arellano’s campaign this upcoming NCAA Season 94.

“I will rest and heal up because I want to play in the NCAA,” said Salado, who averaged 19.1 points, 5.0 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.3 steals for Arellano this past NCAA Season 93.