Rain or Shine to look at back-up imports with Chism injury

MANILA, Philippines – The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters will be preparing for the worst as they consider back-up imports in the wake of Wayne Chism’s injury in the 2016 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. 

“We don’t have any update yet on the status of the injury. We don’t know yet how serious it is. If it can heal in a week or so then maybe we can wait for him, but if it will take more than that then we have to consider a replacement,” said head coach Yeng Guiao said Wednesday, February 17, after the Painters fell short of completing a massive 26-point comeback against the Meralco Bolts.

“But we’re already considering back-ups at this point. Just in case the news is not too good, then we’re hoping we can have time to bring somebody in.”

Chism, last year’s Commissioner’s Cup Best Import, pulled his hamstring muscle, according to Guiao, early in the third quarter as he drove to the basket. Chism crumpled to the floor and was in clear pain but managed to limp his way to the bench.

He never returned to the game as he limped his way to his car and was taken to the hospital shortly after the injury took place.

Rain or Shine’s Wayne Chism to be taken to hospital. He’s limping. Team utility staff says it may be his hamstring pic.twitter.com/KdzLEqhvrL

— Jane Bracher (@janebracher) February 17, 2016

Rain or Shine, which is now 1-1, next plays on Sunday, February 21 against Barangay Ginebra, then they will have a 6-day break as they take on Alaska on Saturday, February 27.

Guiao hopes the favorable schedule would allow Rain or Shine enough time to find a replacement if it turns out they could not wait for Chism. 

Chism played just 16 minutes and finished with 3 points, 4 rebounds, a steal and a block on Wednesday. – Rappler.com