Despite hurting hand, Chris Banchero good to go for quarterfinals

MANILA, Philippines—Alaska guard Chris Banchero said he’s ready to play in the Aces’ match up against Phoenix in the PBA Philippine Cup despite hurting his shooting hand in the do-or-die game against NLEX.

Banchero subbed out with 2:11 left in the second quarter after the Road Warriors’ JR Quiñahan accidentally whacked his hand.

Although Banchero did not return to the game, the Aces cruised to the 88-80 victory and set up a semifinals series with Phoenix.

“It was just chopped by Quiñahan but I think I’d be ready to play, I’m ready to go by Sunday,” said Banchero Friday at Mall of Asia Arena. “It’s kind of painful right now because it’s swollen. I don’t think it’s too bad, it’s just a little painful.”

Banchero, who averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists prior to the NLEX game, finished with four points, three rebounds, and two assists in 15 minutes of play.

He added that he didn’t need to go back to the court especially his teammates had it all wrapped up way before the final buzzer sounded.

Alaska held a 44-25 lead after the first half and the Aces just kept their momentum for the rest of the game.

JVee Casio’s three-pointer gave the Aces a 69-41 lead with 2:51 left in the third and although the Road Warriors’ tried to mount a comeback in the fourth the time left was too little for any bid to happen.

“We were playing well and there’s no need for me to get back in the game,” said Banchero, who saw 37-year-old Sonny Thoss put up 21 points on 10-of-14 shooting.

“Sonny was playing very well, everybody played well tonight so we got the win.”