Juami hopeful of return to help Dyip

Terrrafirma guard Juami TIongson.–PBA IMAGES

Terrafirma star Juami Tiongson has been shut down for the Governors’ Cup due to a leg problem, but his competitive nature makes want to suit up in the Dyip’s last two games.

“That way, maybe I could help us get some wins while staying in shape for the rest of the season.” the 2021 Most Improved Player told the Inquirer.

Tiongson heard a pop around his left leg during the Dyip’s first-round match against Magnolia, which forced him to exit the eventual loss early.

Scans eventually revealed that he suffered a partial hamstring tear. Fortunately, it won’t require the Mythical Second Team member to undergo surgery which would mean a longer recovery time.

Tiongson feels that he feels compelled to be back in harness and be present on the floor for his teammates, but he also understands that doing so poses a great risk in aggravating his injury.

His recovery is pegged for weeks, and if careful, Tiongson’s full return to form could happen during the playoffs which Terrafirma, still winless in seven outings, is likely not going to be a part of.

Right now, Tiongson has been reduced to a spectator as the Dyip continue hunting for their first win. The club, which showed so much potential of wiping out its doormat image after making the All-Filipino playoffs last season, will have three more chances to keep itself from regressing to its old, laughable self.

But that has become an even more uphill battle now with Christian Standhardinger, the former Barangay Ginebra standout, also projected to miss the remainder of the conference.

Coach Johnedel Cardel, in a response to the Inquirer on Friday, said that the high-motor and high-IQ forward returning is “negative for now.”

Cardel said his prized big man sort of hyperextended his knee during the team’s blowout at the hands of NorthPort last Sunday.

Standhardinger also missed the rematch against Magnolia last Thursday, leaving Stanley Pringle as the only veteran to hold the fort for Terrafirma which battles Converge next.