UP’s CJ Cansino doubtful for post-season due to right knee injury

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons might be without one of its court leaders as they battle in the post-season.

As the UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball tournament final four takes shape next week, the recovery of Cansino’s right knee injury is yet to be determined.

According to UP men’s basketball program director Bo Perasol in an interview with Rappler, Cansino suffered a bone bruise and is having some swelling.

“Bone bruising and minimal/manageable swelling on the knee. He is able to do some movement drills and we will check again later in practice,” said the former UP mentor.

Cansino suffered the injury during their record-breaking win against the Ateneo Blue Eagles when he went for the ball in the half-court area during the third quarter.

The Fighting Maroons will be needing Cansino’s court IQ, athleticism, and scoring as they will square off against the stacked and physical De La Salle University Green Archers team in the playoffs next week.

Cansino is currently averaging 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and an assist per game in their total 14 games played during the eliminations.

UP finished the two rounds of the eliminations with a 12-2 win-loss record and are the solo second-placers behind the Blue Eagles.

After their win against the Blue Eagles where they ended the latter’s four-year 39-0 winning streak in the UAAP, the Fighting Maroons will be holding a twice-to-beat advantage against the Green Archers.

La Salle never won a single match against the Fighting Maroons during the first two rounds and are seeking to bounce back in the Season 84 playoffs.