Reyes not replacing injured Fajardo in Gilas’ Fiba Asia Cup roster

Injured center June Mar Fajardo, who walks with a limp, shows his full support for Gilas. Mark Giongco

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes said he has no plans of replacing June Mar Fajardo in the Fiba Asia Cup lineup.

Fajardo is expected to miss the tournament in Beirut, Lebanon due to a strained right calf.

“No. If he can’t play, then we go with 11,” Reyes told reporters Saturday.

READ: Fajardo out of Gilas for Fiba Asia Cup due to injury

The reigning three-time PBA MVP hasn’t ruled himself out of the Fiba Asia. He will join the team when it leaves for Beirut, Lebanon early Sunday morning.

But Reyes said Gilas is already undergoing its buildup without Fajardo in mind rather than taking a wait-and-see approach.

READ: Fajardo still ready to play in Fiba Asia Cup if calf injury improves 

“If he can play, then that’s a bonus, but we’re preparing as if he can’t, because it’s more difficult [to wait-and-see]. We’re preparing as if he’s not going to be there. I think that’s the best way to handle this,” he said.

Fajardo showed up in Gilas’ last practice before flying to Lebanon in street clothes as a show of support.