Compton, Alaska stand behind Abueva

Alaska Aces. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Alaska head coach Alex Compton said the Aces are in full support of Calvin Abueva, who has been dealing with family problems, even if it means he could miss practices.

The star forward left Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday even before Alaska’s game against Blackwater started, but Compton cleared that his departure wasn’t a disciplinary action.

“Alaska’s always been family first, I will never get in the way of somebody taking care of something important with their family,” said Saturday.

“I’ve spoken to some of you about him missing some practices but our rule is if there’s something going on with your family, it’s an emergency, you don’t even need to call me.”

Abueva, who missed four straight practices with the club, was in game gear before the Aces took on the Elite but spoke lengthily with Compton before tip-off.

Compton then allowed Abueva to leave to take care of the family issue.

“We’re a family-first franchise, it’s one of the things that makes me proud to be part of Alaska,” said Compton as his team won 88-84. “We obviously missed Calvin but the other guys stepped up in his absence and we’re just praying for him.”

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