Cautious Pacquiao unafraid of risks in playing in PBA ahead of big fight

Manny Pacquiao goes up against the defense of Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters. PBA.INQUIRER.NET PHOTO/NUKI SABIO

MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao knows there is a risk of him having an injury playing basketball that could prevent his May 2 super fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr. from pushing through.

Pacquiao though, said he is not afraid of getting hurt while on the court.

“Hindi naman (Not really),” Pacquiao, who is the playing-coach of the Kia Carnival in the Philippine Basketball Association, said when told about the possibility of hurting himself while going up against players bigger than he is.

Pacquiao has played twice in the 2015 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. He logged close to five minutes of playing time a little over a week ago just days before his fight with Mayweather got the green light and saw action for six minutes and 43 seconds last Wednesday.

“Kanina nasa labas lang naman ako (Earlier I was just outside). Hindi naman ako pumapasok so safe lang (I wasn’t going inside so it’s safe), playing safe,” Pacquiao added following Kia’s thrilling 106-103 win over Talk ‘N Text last Wednesday.

The 36-year-old Pacquiao on Saturday is expected to play his third game this conference against Blackwater and fifth game overall — his last appearance in the PBA before he departs for the US to continue his training for the biggest fight of his career.

The Carnival are on a rare winning streak and Pacquiao believes his team is in good hands as he leaves his duties to his assistants.

“Walang problema dahil ‘yung assistant coach ko, ‘yung mga coaches alam naman nila gagawin. (Not a problem because my assistant coaches know what to do. They will be the ones to train the players well).”

Interestingly, Kia is 3-1 this season when Pacquiao, who is only averaging 0.3 points per game, is playing.

“When boss Manny is here, everyone’s spirit is up. A legend like him on your side is a big morale boost for the team,” Kia player Hyram Bagatsing told INQUIRER.net recently.

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