ADRIAN Nocum remains a game-time decision for Gilas Pilipinas as the national team awaits further evaluation on the guard’s injury ahead of its crucial Group C matchup against Kazakhstan.
Gilas team official Richard del Rosario said Nocum is still being assessed following the injury he suffered during the Philippines’ 89-85 defeat to Bahrain in its Asian Games opener.
“Still being evaluated. Game time decision,” del Rosario said.
Nocum went down during the contest against Bahrain, adding to Gilas’ injury concerns after Robert Bolick also suffered a knee issue during warmups.
Bolick attempted to play through his injury but struggled, while Nocum was later forced out of the game as the Philippines battled Bahrain’s bigger lineup.
The availability of both guards is now a major concern for Gilas, which dropped to 0-1 in Group C and needs a strong response against Kazakhstan on September 12.
Calvin Oftana stepped up in his Asian Games debut, exploding for 31 points to keep the Philippines within striking distance, but Gilas will need as much depth as possible as it tries to recover from its opening defeat.
The team is also already without naturalized player Justin Brownlee, who remains unavailable while recovering from injuries in the United States.
With the next game just around the corner, Gilas will have to wait until game day before learning whether Nocum can return to the court. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
