It has only been a month since Jeron Teng survived the most harrowing experience of his life.
After surviving a stabbing incident that nearly derailed his rookie year, Teng is back playing for Alaska in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
“I’m super happy and blessed that I was able to get back this conference and I’m just happy to play again,” said Teng in Filipino after helping Alaska to a 114-91 domination of Phoenix Friday at Cuneta Astrodome.
Teng and former La Salle teammates Thomas Torres and Norbert Torres were the victims of a knife attack in Bonifacio Global City with three middle-aged men charged with frustrated homicide and serious physical injury.
It took Teng a few days of bed rest at St. Luke’s Medical Centre before he was able to join Alaska for the team’s daily practice.
Although Teng initially wasn’t allowed to take part in full basketball drills he was given permission to work on his own and undergo physical therapy with the team’s medical staff.
“I’m thankful that we have a great medical team in Alaska and they really focused on my therapy everyday so I was able to return quickly,” said Teng who had seven points, two rebounds, and two assists in 18 minutes of play.
Alaska head coach Alex Compton meanwhile, is just relieved that his rookie is back in the league and playing the game.
“It’s good to have him back, I’m glad I don’t know what it feels like with what he went through, I hope I never know what it feels like,” said Compton. “For him to be in a uniform now, it’s really a testament to his doctors, to our medical staff.”