Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net
It’s been almost two years since Rhanzelle Yong was last seen playing in a competitive setting.
But on Tuesday, the 22-year-old finally made his way back to the hard court, suiting up for Zark’s Burger-Lyceum in the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.
The 6-2 forward had a solid game for the Jawbreakers in their 91-85 loss to CEU, finishing with with nine points and five assists outing in 20 minutes of play before fouling out with three minutes remaining in the game.
Yong, who is nephew of Magnolia slotman Ian Sangalang, had to take over with Cameroonian big man Mike Nzeusseu limited due to an ankle sprain sustained in the first quarter.
“I’m OK. I’m happy with how we competed even though we were missing some of our key players like Mike and (MJ) Ayaay,” said Yong.
Putting the nightmares of the ACL injuries which sidelined him over the past two years behind, the Kapampangan stalwart is excited for this new beginning with a familiar face in Topex Robinson guiding him anew.
“I’ve known coach Topex for a long time and it’s great here because we’re like a family,” he said as they continue their partnership forged in San Sebastian to now in Lyceum. “The players here are disciplined and I’m just excited to play with them.”
Yong is using the opportunity in the developmental league to get into top shape for the upcoming NCAA season.
“We’ll continue working hard in our D-League games so that I can recover. I’m also looking at this as my preparation for the NCAA because that’s my priority. Hopefully, I can continue to play,” he said.