University of Santo Tomas forward Gelo Crisostomo is unlikely to see action again in UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament as the Growling Tigers prioritize his recovery from a right knee injury.
A team insider told Fastbreak that UST is not rushing Crisostomo’s rehabilitation after he sustained a partial anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprain and a bone contusion during the Tigers’ second game of the season against De La Salle University Green Archers last September.
“Baka hindi na siya makakalaro this season. Magpapagaling muna siya. Mahirap ipilit,” the team insider said. “His health remains our primary concern.”
Crisostomo’s potential season-long absence is another setback for UST, which has struggled to address its rebounding problems throughout the campaign.
The forward could have provided valuable support to starting center Collins Akowe, giving the Tigers additional size, physicality and energy in the paint.
His absence has limited UST’s options in the frontcourt, particularly in matchups against teams with imposing big men.
Despite the injury, Crisostomo still has one year of UAAP eligibility remaining, according to the team insider, should he decide to postpone his plans of turning professional.
The Growling Tigers currently occupy fifth place in the standings with a 5-6 win-loss record and three elimination-round games remaining.
UST will need to make the most of its remaining assignments as it fights to secure a place in the Final Four, potentially without one of its key frontcourt players for the rest of the season. (Adrian Co)
