Chanelle Molina returns to Hawaii, continues recovery from ankle injury

Chanelle Molina’s attempt at setting foot in the WNBA, a first for any full-blooded Filipina, may be delayed but it’s not yet denied.

More than a week after the Indiana Fever waived her, the Hawaii-born Filipina cager bared in an Instagram story Thursday that she is now back in Hawaii to recover from an ankle injury, which ultimately forced the team to cut her from its 20-man roster.

“I just wanted to let you guys know that I’ve been off of social media. However, I came back on to thank this company for their amazing support in my recovery,” posted Molina.

“For all of those who are wondering, I’m back in Hawaii with my family and I will be using this time to relax and let my ankle heal. Then, it’s back to training hard again for overseas wherever they may be.”

The 22-year-old Molina admitted that the recent event took a toll on her and said she was disappointed at first, especially with the unwavering support from supporters from both Hawaii and the Philippines.

But Molina is now taking it in stride and will just use the time off the game to recuperate.

“Of course I was disappointed and frustrated that I was not able to compete to the best of my abilities. It took a while for me to understand that this is God’s way of telling me that it’s not my time just yet,” she said.

“As bad as I want to get back on the court, I realize that I need to stay patient and trust the process so that I can come back 100%.”

Last 27 April, just the second day of training camp, the Fever announced that they had waived Molina due to an ankle injury she sustained on day one.

Nonetheless, Molina said this will not stop her from chasing her dreams of becoming the first Filipina to compete in the prestigious WNBA.

“My love for the game is unreal and with the determination and hard work anything is possible. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me.”

“I want to thank @indianafever for the opportunity and thank my family, friends. Hawaii and Filipino community for all of the unconditional love and support.” —Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News