Jack doubtful for UAAP, not for SEAG

MANILA, Philippines — Jack Animan suffered an injury in a FIBA Asia-Oceania match with South Korea last week, but coach Pat Aquino is hoping his ace center would be good to go as Gilas women go for a breakthrough win in the 30th SEA Games.

Animam suffered an orbital fracture on her right eye, causing her an extended stay in Auckland, New Zealand while awaiting clearance from the FIBA medical staff.

Aquino expects Animam to arrive in the country anytime this week, with the player not needing any surgical procedure.

“She did not get the approval from FIBA to fly out with us for the meantime for safety purposes. The flight may have side effects on her injury so she has to stay there for a while,” Aquino told The STAR. 

“We’re just waiting for clearance. She’s been under observation every day. Rest assured, there’s no problem ahead so we expect her to play in the SEA Games.” 

But while Animam could make it in time for the biennial meet set Nov. 30-Dec 11, her availability for NU is up in the air as the Lady Bulldogs gear up for a potential title clincher in Game 2 against Santo Tomas in the 82nd UAAP women’s basketball finals tomorrow. 

Good thing for Aquino, the rest of the Lady Bulldogs have proven their capability to hold the fort without Animam following their tough 70-65 Game 1 win the other day that put them  on cusp of a sixth consecutive crown.

“It’s a big shoes to fill. Jack has been a big part of NU so it’s really hard to fill in. But other players are ready to step up. We play as NU. We’ll see what we could adjust on and what we could do better,” Aquino said.