Without Jayson Castro, local players like Calvin Oftana and RR Pogoy are stepping up for the TNT Tropang Giga in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup semifinals.
TNT is dedicating its succeeding games in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup to injured star Jayson Castro.
Calvin Oftana bared this after the Tropang Giga humbled Rain or Shine, 93-85, in Game 4 of their semifinal battle Wednesday, March 5.
After stumbling in Game 3, TNT built a bigger separation from its foe in the best-of-seven series at 3-1, and is now a win away from the Finals.
“Malaking bagay din kasing nawala si Kuya Jayson. Kaya itong remaining games namin, ino-offer namin sa kaniya,” said Oftana, who finished with 26 points, three rebounds and four assists in the Tropang Giga's latest victory.
Castro suffered a patellar tendon tear in Game 2. He will be out for at least a year, according to coach Chot Reyes.
Reyes added that "The Blur" already underwent surgery three days ago.
“Surgery is done already two days ago. He’s now going to go through the long process of recovery and rehab. So it's going to take at least a year. Next year na natin makikita si Jayson,” said Reyes.
Jayson Castro holds on to his knee during Game 2 of the semifinals between the TNT Tropang Giga and the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
The Tropang Giga rallied behind their fallen teammate and bounced back against the Elasto Painters in Game 4.
A No. 17 patch is emblazoned on each of the TNT player’s jerseys, signifying the squad's undying support to the two-time Best Point Guard in Asia.
“I think his number on our jerseys is statement enough,” said Reyes.
Oftana and the rest of the Tropang Giga are expected to sustain their form as they eye a slot in the Finals against the winner between Ginebra and NorthPort.
“Big factor si Kuya Jayson sa amin. But it’s not one person na mag-fill in sa shoes ni Kuya Jayson. It should be us as a team,” said Oftana.
Game 5 is set on Friday, March 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.