Castro undergoes first of two surgeries

MANILA, Philippines — TNT Tropang Giga superstar Jayson Castro has undergone successful surgery to remove bone spurs on his left knee, according to the team’s physical therapist and conditioning coach.

The operation held Monday night was the first of two for Castro, who is set to go under the knife anew for the same procedure on his right knee next week.

Castro’s successful treatment will prime him up for full recovery by next month, way before the 46th PBA season kicks off in April.

“Jayson will be okay by mid-February,” said Dex Aseron, the team therapist.

The 34-year-old Castro sustained the injury in Game 4 of the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup finals held inside the bubble in Clark, Pampanga last December.

The absence of Castro, who was good for 15.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game, dealt a costly blow to TNT’s chances against Barangay Ginebra, which went on to win the series, 4-1.

It was the first Philippine Cup crown for Ginebra since 2007.

Meanwhile, the other injured TNT soldier in Ray Parks Jr. is also on his way to recovery with continuous rehabilitation and strengthening from a left calf injury he suffered in Game 1 of the title series.

Both Castro and Parks would be ready for the next PBA season as TNT tries to end its five-year championship drought.