S’hardinger unfit to play in FIBA 3x3?
Christian Standhardinger is still in pain from a knee injury (Iliotibial Band Syndrome) three days before the start of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan. In fact, the Fil-German player remains a doubtful starter for San Miguel Beer, which plays Columbian Dyip at 7 tonight at the resumption of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Standhardinger has also missed a practice with Team Phl where he’s with GlobalPort’s Stanley Pringle and TNT KaTropa’s Troy Rosario and RR Pogoy under coach Ronnie Magsanoc. “He’s the better judge. It’s on him,” said San Miguel team manager Gie Abanilla on Standhardinger’s readiness for tonight’s game in the PBA.
It’s supposed to be Standhardinger’s first meeting with the team that let him go to San Miguel.
Standhardinger sat out their 10497 win in overtime over Barangay Ginebra on Sunday due to his hurting knee where 65cc of fluid was drained Saturday.
“It’s due to ITB (Iliotibial Band Syndrome) which is apparently caused by prolonged playing. He’s been playing non-stop since last year when he saw action in the Jones Cup, FIBA Asia, SEA Games then in the ABL,” said Abanilla.
“But he’s getting better. We’re doing our best to help him, knowing he wants to play in the 3x3 World Cup. We have our physical therapist looking at him round the clock,” Abanilla also said.
Still, Abanilla wants Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to have its doctor check on Standhardinger.
“I told them to talk to Dr. Raul Canlas so they can have insights, and to be fair to everybody. If Christian is okay, it’s well and good. Our concern is if he’s not able to perform well because of his injury. Then it’s unfair to the Philippine team,” said Abanilla.
Standhardinger is confident he’ll be okay for the World Cup that will run June 8-12.
“I will do everything on my part to play as that’s very important for me. I’m going to be fine,” said Standhardinger.
Abanilla, meanwhile, stressed it’s Standhardinger’s call.
“He knows his body. In the end, it’s his call,” Abanilla said.