UST’s Embons Bonleon to undergo surgery, out 6-8 months

MANILA, Philippines – The UST Growling Tigers will lose forward Embons Bonleon after the sophomore re-aggravated an injury on his wrist that will require surgery and keep him sidelined for recovery in the next 6-8 months, he confirmed to Rappler on Thursday, September 15.

The Varsitarian, UST’s official school publication, was first to report the news on Twitter.

Bonleon entered the season already injured and in need of surgery, but decided to fight the pain and play anyway. His wrist’s condition worsened during UST’s 100-62 loss to the DLSU Green Archers on Wednesday, September 14.

According to Bonleon, the scaphoid in his wrist is now already non-union, which means the bone has been separated. The player said his current injury is worse than a fracture.

Growling Tigers head coach Boy Sablan told Rappler on Thursday that the team would still look at other options for Bonleon’s injury. The player confirmed later on, however, that he will have surgery on Monday, September 19, to repair the damage after their team doctor explained that there is no other option.

In 3 games this season, Bonleon was averaging 4.7 points on 40% shooting. The UST forward said he’s disappointed not only due to the injury, but also because he feels he should have performed better in Season 79.

“Actually wala pa akong napapakitang maganda. I’m so disappointed kasi ‘di ko pa nga na-redeem ‘yung sarili ko, eh napilay pa ako.”

(Actually, I haven’t shown anything substantial yet. I’m so disappointed because I haven’t been able to redeem myself yet, and then I got injured.)

After having the surgery in UST’s hospital, Bonleon will start his rehabilitation by running before further improving his conditioning.

The Growling Tigers are back in action Saturday, September 17, against the still winless UP Fighting Maroons. – Rappler.com