The Cignal HD Spikers remain cautious about Bryan Bagunas’ return from injury, prioritizing his full recovery for the FIVB World Championships in September.
The Cignal HD Spikers opened their 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference campaign with a dominant 25-15, 25-16, 25-23 win over debuting Alpha Insurance on Thursday, February 21, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
In their opening campaign, the HD Spikers have yet to be with superstar spiker Bryan Bagunas.
The 27-year-old spiker sustained a left knee injury while attempting a jump serve on the final play of Alas Men’s four-set loss to Indonesia during the home leg of the 2024 Southeast Asian V.League in August.
Six months since his injury, Bagunas has since been included in Cignal’s roster for the Open Conference. However, head coach Dexter Clamor emphasized the team’s careful approach regarding Bagunas’ return.
“Naka-lineup siya ngayon sa Open Conference pero kung makakalaro, hindi ko pa masagot. We'll see kung makalaro siya,” Clamor explained during the Spikers’ Turf media day.
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With the HD Spikers also set to compete in the AVC Champions League in Japan, Clamor admitted he is unsure if Bagunas will be ready in time but assured that his participation in the FIVB World Championships in September is a priority.
“I'm not sure din kung makakalaro siya sa AVC pero definitely, makakalaro siya sa World Championships sa September. ‘Yun naman ‘yung importante,” he added. “So, lahat naman naghihintay kay Bryan. Ang importante ay makalaro siya na healthy.”
Rather than rushing his return, Clamor stressed the importance of patience in Bagunas’ recovery.
“Mahirap naman din kasi biglain si Bryan, so hintayin nalang natin and suportahan nalang natin siya sa pinagdadaanan niya ngayon,” said Clamor.
[ALSO READ: Alas Pilipinas Men rally behind 'heart and soul' Bryan Bagunas]
While Bagunas’ status remains uncertain, Cignal proved its depth in its season opener, with Steven Rotter leading the team with 11 points, while Jau Umandal and team captain JP Bugaoan chipped in 10 and nine points, respectively.
Alas Men is placed in Pool A of the global tournament, where they will face continental powerhouses Iran, Egypt, and opening-day opponent Tunisia on September 12 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
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(With reports from Jamie Velasco/One Sports Digital)