PBA: Chris Newsome sustains MCL sprain, status uncertain for crucial Game 5 vs TNT

Meralco may be without a key piece on Wednesday as Chris Newsome sustained an MCL sprain on his left knee, putting his availability for Game 5 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals against TNT in doubt.

Newsome revealed the diagnosis on Sunday following the Bolts’ 102-83 loss to the Tropang Giga.

“Right now, the official update is I have an MCL sprain on my left knee. It’s just going through the recovery process and taking the precautions I need to take for me to be able to get back on the court,” Newsome said.

The injury was sustained last Friday in Game 3 of the semifinals.

Newsome said the initial diagnosis calls for a recovery period of three to five weeks, making a return for Game 5 a challenge.

“As of right now, it should be anywhere between three to five weeks from what we know. There is a possibility it could be shorter depending on the severity of the sprain,” he said.

“Game 5 will be a tough one to try to reach, but it does help that we have an extra day in between games. I’ll be doing my recovery work from now until Wednesday to see if I can get out on the court. It’s already a good sign that I’m able to walk and stand on my own.”

For now, Newsome said he will continue to help the team from the sidelines if he is unable to play.

“I’m going to do whatever I can to help, whether that’s being out there physically. If I can’t do that, then I’m definitely going to use my voice,” he said.

“I’m basically another assistant coach while I’m not able to go out there and play, but I know the guys trust me. They trust my eyes and what I see out there.”

Meanwhile, TNT guard RR Pogoy said he is dealing with a Grade 1 hamstring strain, which will likely force him to miss the next game for the Tropang 5G.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News