Jema Galanza would not let a sprained thumb get in her way as she suited up for Creamline in their Game 2 victory against Chery Tiggo in the PVL All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals.
Despite a sprained thumb, Jema Galanza managed to suit up for the Creamline Cool Smashers in Game 2 of the PVL All-Filipino Conference at the Ynares Center Antipolo Saturday.
Coming off the bench, Galanza contributed three points in the Cool Smashers’ hard-fought victory against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, 20-25, 25-21, 25-22, 25-22, to secure their 17th straight semifinals appearance.
Galanza sustained the injury in Game 1 after her thumb took an awkward hit from a Pauline Gaston attack. Fortunately, X-ray results showed no severe damage, allowing her to push through despite the discomfort.
“Well, tumama kasi sa palo ni Ponggay ‘yung thumb ko. Hindi lang tama ‘yung pagkakatama kaya na-sprain. Nakapag X-ray naman after para malaman din kung malala siya or paano ‘yung magiging process ng recovery,” Galanza shared to One Sports.
Despite lesser playing time than usual, Galanza’s presence on the court was crucial for Creamline’s depth and stability. Of course, adrenaline helped her power through the pain.
“Namanhid naman na siya,” Galanza quipped. “Siguro dala na rin ng adrenaline na nawala ‘yung pain niya. Wala, kailangan din talaga kasi hindi naman talaga ine-expect na tawagin.”
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Galanza also took the time to reassure fans that she wouldn’t have forced herself to play if she wasn’t physically capable, emphasizing that her inclusion in the lineup meant she was ready to contribute.
“Kasi kung ‘di naman kaya, hindi naman talaga ipu-push. Nandun ako sa lineup kasi kaya din naman talaga,” she said.
For now, Galanza and the Cool Smashers will have a week to rest and prepare for the round-robins semifinals which begins on March 29, still at the Ynares Center Antipolo.