Thoss-less Alaska team needs to learn winning games with small lineup
SONNY Thoss, Alaska’s premier center, is still out because of a knee injury and there’s no time line for his possible return.
Fortunately for the Aces, the team was able to win back- toback games since Calvin Abueva returned from a quadriceps injury and the team improved its win-loss record to 2-2.
Alaska coach Alex Compton told his team to get used to winning with a small line up as Thoss’ possible return would take some time.
“We are trying to turn this time without Sonny in doing that disadvantageous situation. We’re small, but we have to learn to win small. Let’s learn how to scrap a little more. Let’s look at how we can make some different options because you can’t just throw it down to Sonny. Hopefully, we can look at the big picture,” Mr. Compton said.
According to Mr. Compton, Mr. Thoss’ injury status isn’t that serious, but they don’t want to aggravate his situation.
“It doesn’t have a tear like an ACL injury or what. But if there would be pressure added on his knee then it could lead to possible tear. We don’t want to risk it,” added Mr. Compton.
Mr. Thoss, for his part, told BusinessWorld that his knee is getting better, but he doesn’t have a time line for his return.
“It’s day to day,” added Mr. Thoss. “But it’s getting better. Hopefully I could join the team when we put our efforts deep into the playoffs.”
Alaska is playing tougher teams TNT and Ginebra in their next two games and although Mr. Thoss’ presence is needed, Mr. Compton felt his veteran center can take his time and get himself stronger as he will be needed more during the tough grind.
“There are some players that I think typify the way we need to play. You’ve seen that in guys who don’t get a lot of credit. Obviously, Ping Exciminiano, the effort that he puts for us. JP Mendoza, he’s playing the power forward having to guard the centers sometimes and he plays a little bit shorter than Calvin, but he plays like Calvin. He plays so much bigger than himself because he plays so hard,” said Mr. Compton.