It’s only a matter of time.
The Magnolia Hotshots have been rolling in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup even without the services of workhorse forward Calvin Abueva, who is still out due to a hemorrhoid surgery last October.
On Wednesday, The Beast-less Hotshots manhandled the Terrafirma Dyip, 104-91. Abueva was on the sidelines at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, obviously raring to go as his crew secured a league-leading 8-1 card and a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.
Abueva posted an Instagram Story to express his burning desire to join his teammates on the floor.
“Gameday,” he posted over a clip of him sitting on the floor near Magnolia’s bench.
The Hotshots scored a bounce-back win after dropping one against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters last Saturday. It was their first defeat since the PBA On Tour.
The way Magnolia’s been playing, it begs the question: How much better will the team be once Abueva gets activated?
After their win over Terrafirma, coach Chito Victolero provided insight on the possible return of the two-time Best Player of the Conference.
“There’s probability that he will play on Saturday,” the veteran tactician said during the postgame presser.
That’s definitely good news for Magnolia fans. Victolero, however, clarified that the final decision will still depend on the recommendation of the team’s medical staff.
“If the physical therapists approve na maglalaro siya, I think he will play on Saturday,” noted Victolero.
ALSO READ: GUTS AND GLORY | After string of premature exits, is Magnolia ripe to conquer PBA throne anew?
The Hotshots are set to face the Converge FiberXers this Saturday. Will The Beast be unleashed by then?
(PM)