Tiras Wade talks to members of the Philippine media during iECO’s practice in the Asia League The Terrific 12 Wednesday at Macau East Asian Games Dome. BONG LOZADA
MACAU—A familiar face is set to suit up for the Philippine representatives in the Asia League The Terrific 12 with Tiras Wade slotted in to replace the injured Richard Howell in the iECO lineup.
The Green Warriors are already eliminated in the competition but will still play their last game in Group C with Wade tasked to man the paint against Xinjiang on Thursday evening at Studio City Events Center here.
Wade, who once played for TNT in 2009, said that he’s delighted that he will be able to play for a team from the Philippines.
“The Philippines, like what I always tell everybody, is one of my favorite places to play,” said Wade during the team’s practice Wednesday at Macau East Asian Games Dome.
“The love for the game is unmatched and I would say it’s the States, the Philippines, and China have the best basketball atmosphere to play in.”
Wade will play for just one game with iECO as Howell’s replacement after the big man got injured in the Green Warriors’ game match against Ryukyu from B.League.
Howell hyperextended his left knee that forced him to miss the whole tournament.
Although Wade’s inclusion into the team was short notice, the 6-foot-7 forward was already in Shanghai and was able to make the quick trip to Macau.
iECO head coach Ariel Vanguardia called up Wade and the former PBA import was glad to suit up after being out of league basketball for one year.
“I didn’t have anything else to do, and I love to get a chance to play again in a stage like this,” said Wade. “It feels good to be back and represent the Philippines and at least play with Filipino teammates again.”