MANILA, Philippines — Expansion team Blackwater Elite continues its hunt for that elusive first win in the PBA after it dropped its opening game in the 2015 Commissioner’s Cup against Barako Bull on Wednesday, January 28 at the Cuneta Astrodome.
The Elite, which lost, 92-70, missed the services of its 7-foot American import Chris Charles due to a strained left hamstring he’s been nursing since last week.
“It’s just bad timing for us. I really wanna help my team. I feel like I’m accountable when they lose. I feel like it’s my responsibility,” he said after the game.
Charles said it’s his first time to experience this kind of injury.
He feels all the more responsible for the loss considering how Blackwater kept it close, leading by 4 late in the first half and coming to within two, 60-58, nearing the end of the third. But Barako Bull uncorked searing 15-0 blast through to the fourth to put Blackwater away for good.
“We were close at times. It was really close. Just towards the end of the third quarter we lost some of our momentum but I think if I was there I really would have been able to contribute in some areas. Hopefully next game.”
The 33-year old former two-time Best Import in the ASEAN Basketball League explained he strained his hamstring in practice about a week ago but still played through it in a tune-up game against Globalport.
“I thought it would go away but I continued to play and it still bothered me,” said Charles, who said it is still uncertain whether he will suit up in Blackwater’s next game against Talk ‘N Text on Sunday, February 1.
Charles said he is currently undergoing “aggressive treatment” and how he feels in the next few days will determine when he will be able to play.
Though Charles admits he would understand if Blackwater chose to bring in a temporary import in his place.
“Just what’s best for the team. I understand it’s a business,” he said. “Of course I want to be the import at all times but if it’s physically impossible for me, I understand it’s a business. But I really want to play with this team no matter what.”
The Elite sorely missed aggressiveness and rebounding down the middle, as the Energy beat them, 56-45, on the glass. Blackwater also went just 7-of-9 from the free throw line while Barako had way more attempts with 23-of-33.
Blackwater also had nobody matching up with Barako import Solomon Alabi, who had his way with 21 points, 22 rebounds, and 5 blocks.
Charles, who arrived in the country on December 12, said he has already acclimated himself with the team.
“I think I’m adjusting pretty well,” said Charles, adding that physicality is something he expects in the PBA. “Everyone’s been welcoming of me, showing me the ropes with the plays. And I’m in a new country, everyone’s cool.” – Rappler.com
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