San Beda University lost a key piece as JV Gallego won't be suiting up for the Red Lions in their redemption drive in the upcoming NCAA Season 98.
Incoming head coach Yuri Escueta bared the development to GMA News Online, sharing that the 6-foot-tall shooting guard sustained a knee injury during their preseason activities and had begged off from playing this season.
"Nag-beg off siya kasi nahihirapan siya sa knee injury niya," Escueta said during the league's media launch on Monday.
"So sabi namin sa kanya is to focus first on sa injury niya. So kung kailangan magpa-check sa doctor at kung may kailangan ipa-opera, ipa-opera na niya para at least for his last year ay healthy siya."
Gallego was among San Beda's spark plugs in the previous season, where he posted averages of 4.27 points, 1.91 rebounds, and 1.55 assists to help the Mendiola crew reach the Final Four.
Earlier, Escueta also revealed that Rhayyan Amsali won't be joining their campaign in Season 98 as the 21-year-old bruiser will shift his focus first to his spirituality.
"Nung last time na nagusap kami, sabi ng mom niya magfofocus sa studies. Pero ngayon, nag-decide ata sila na mag-stay siya sa Zamboanga and mag-focus sa studies and his spirituality," the mentor said.
"I told them lang to file for LOA nang maayos para anytime that he wants to come back, makakabalik siya. 'Pag ready na siya, balik lang siya."
With Amsali and Gallego out, Escueta is expecting for the other Red Lions to step up as they look to redeem themselves following a shock Final Four exit last season.
"There are guys who are expected to step up of course, young guns like Jacob Cortez, sila Justine Sanchez, and of course they (other players) have to play a bigger role."
—JMB, GMA News
