Players and coaches from the semifinals-bound teams in Terrific 12 including San Miguel Beermen’s Leo Austria and Dez Wells. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MACAU—San Miguel will continue its campaign in the East Asia Super League: The Terrific 12 still without its usual starters.
The Beermen advanced to a semifinals against CBA’s Liaoning but Leo Austria’s lineup won’t have five-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo and forward Marcio Lassiter, while point guard Alex Cabagnot is still doubtful.
“I wish they could all play but I think Alex will suit up tomorrow,” said Austria during the semifinals press conference Friday at Tap Seac Sports Pavilion here. “I keep on asking if they will play because I don’t want to force them if they’re not 100 percent.”
Fajardo is still nursing a right ankle injury that he aggravated in the Fiba World Cup, Lassiter is still not in top shape after an MCL injury in the Commissioner’s Cup semifinals, and Cabagnot had the flu earlier this week.
Nevertheless, Austria still has imports Dez Wells and Lester Prosper in the wing and big man positions, respectively.
Filling in for the off guard spot is Terence Romeo while Christian Standhardinger remains the main force off the bench for the lone PBA team remaining in the tournament.
Austria said Cabagnot’s already practiced with the team but Fajardo won’t be risked.
“June Mar definitely cannot play tomorrow because the swelling in his ankle has just started to subside,” said Austria who plans to play his center in the Governors’ Cup.