Injured Akhuetie returns in Game 1 of UAAP Finals

University of the Philippines center Bright Akhuetie left Game 1 of the UAAP Season 81 men’s basketball finals against Ateneo due to an apparent left knee injury.

Akhuetie, who is this season’s MVP, collided with Blue Eagles center Angelo Kouame after the latter started to run to start Ateneo’s play.

Kouame bumped the back of Akhuetie’s right leg but the UP center had his left foot planted firmly that may have hyperextended his left knee.

Akhuetie, who was stretchered out of the game with 6:31 left in the third with Ateneo leading, 50-44, returned at the 7:04 mark of the fourth quarter.