Juan GDL has already been out for the season.
"God gives His toughest battles to His strongest soldiers."
Filipino basketball guard Juan Gomez de Liaño of the Seoul SK Knights tries to find solace and comfort in religion, as he bared his "most difficult" challenge in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).
Juan GDL, who was reported to be out for the KBL's current season due to a finger injury, shared on an Instagram Story that he underwent the second of three major operations on his middle finger.
"It's been three weeks since I've been confined and I'll be honest, it's one of the most difficult and trying times in my life," he admitted.
"Staying at a hospital enduring pain alone and away from family is really tough."
He thanked fans for sending prayers and messages.
"It means a lot and I appreciate the love for real."
He did get a fruit basket at the hospital.
"To my SK family, I'm thankful for the support and rest assured I'll be back stronger than ever once I finish my recovery and rehab," Gomez de Liano added.
"Keep fighting for the rest of the season and I'll be here to support and cheer for y'all!"
He seems to remain upbeat and positive earlier this month.
"The comeback is personal, trust me. I have faith everything will happen in God’s timing and according to His plan," he posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).
The SK Knights will be one of two squads representing the KBL in the East Asia Super League (EASL) semifinals after finishing at the top of Group B.
The Final Four will be played at Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City, just outside Cebu City. It will feature four elimination games: two semifinals played on March 8, followed by the battle for third and the championship on March 10.
The SK Knights will take on fellow KBL squad Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters, while the Chiba Jets of the Japan B.League face the New Taipei Kings of the Taiwan P. League+ on March 8.
[ALSO READ: EASL Final Four teams head to Lapu-Lapu City]
The games will be aired on One Sports, One Sports+, and the Pilipinas Live app.