By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Magnolia Hotshots Chicken Timplados will be bracing for a tough stretch ahead after superstar center Ian Sangalang will most likely sit out the rest of the ongoing PBA Governor’s Cup.
Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero himself announced the saddening news after explaining that they are no longer expecting Sangalang to suit up for the rest of the games due to an undisclosed illness.
“I think he will not make it and we will not force Ian. We want him to focus on his health so when he returns, he is healthy and ready to go,” said Victolero
The former superstar of the San Sebastian Stags only played one game for the Chicken Timplados this import-laced conference during their opening game against the Converge FiberXers last January 29, 2023.
Sangalang looked sloppy during that game and only registered 12 total minutes, finishing with two points, two rebounds, and two assists in the loss.
The savvy leftie then failed to reinforce the team in the next eight games and dealt a huge blow to Magnolia that kicked off the conference with a 0-3 start.
However, the Chicken Timplados are now back on track after acquiring the services of Antonio Hester, the hardworking import of the Terrafirma Dyip during the past conference.
Since the arrival of Hester, Magnolia only lost a game and won all of their five outings that helped them reach the seventh spot despite a rough start.
“We will not force him to play for this conference. We want him to get as much rest as he needs so he can have a better recovery,” added Victolero.
The Chicken Timplados are now in a must-win situation with only two remaining games against the Terrafirma Dyip and the Blackwater Bossing today and March 8, respectively.
