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MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine big man Keith Datu has been ruled out for the rest of the 50th PBA season due to a right knee injury.
The Elasto Painters announced on Thursday, November 6, the patellar tendon rupture Datu sustained in the third quarter of their 91-80 win over Phoenix in the Philippine Cup on Wednesday, November 5.
Datu slipped during a drive midway through the third quarter and looked in visible pain as he clutched his knee. He needed to be helped off the court and never returned to the game.
“You’ve shown so much fight every time you stepped on the court, and we know that same strength will carry you through this,” Rain or Shine said.
“We’re praying for your fast and full recovery, Keith, and we’ll be right here to support you every step of the way.”
Knee injuries have troubled Datu since being picked fourth overall in the 2023 draft — the 6-foot-7 center suffered a medial collateral ligament injury last season that kept him out for a couple of games.
Losing Datu is a huge blow for the team, considering he had been steady this conference, averaging 10.0 points and 6.0 rebounds.
He adds to the Elasto Painters’ injury woes, with guard Stanley Pringle and forward Caelan Tiongson missing games and big man Luis Villegas yet to see action due to their respective injuries.
Despite its personnel problems, Rain or Shine has gotten off a promising start as it totes a league-best 5-1 record. – Rappler.com
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