Blatche shrugs off bum ankle after Turkey tuneup

Andray Blatche limps to the bench. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Andray Blatche downplayed any concerns after his left ankle took a little hit Friday during the Philippines’ tune-up game against Turkey at Mall of Asia Arena.

A visibly hurt Blatche briefly left the game in the 4:43 mark of the game with Gilas trailing the Giant Men, 74-65.

Blatche, though, plans of doing a little rest and relaxation once he gets to the hotel.

“It’s a little sore, I’ll put some ice on it when I get to the hotel and go to the hot tub,” said Blatche, who finished the game with 20 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

Blatche came back to the game with 2:23 left and the Filipinos down 79-66.

Gilas would trim the lead to as low as six, 82-76, after Terrence Romeo hit a triple with 1:02 left.

Turkey, though, would hold on and finish the game at 84-76.