Chris Newsome allays fears of a serious injury, vows to play on Sunday

CHRIS Newsome allayed fears of a serious injury on Wednesday, saying he plans to suit up in Meralco’s next game in the PBA Philippine Cup.

Newsome hurt his left knee in the final 19.4-second mark of the Bolts’ 82-76 win over Phoenix following a collision with Javee Mocon. He was carried by his teammates back to the bench, and later limped back to the dugout.

But Newsome felt much better after emerging from the Meralco dugout, even saying that he doesn’t see himself sitting out the Bolts’ crucial encounter against Magnolia on Sunday.

“Just part of the game,” said Newsome, who walked on his own on his way out of the Smart-Araneta Coliseum. “Got hit… My leg locked up a little bit but just got to go home, rest, take some medicine.”

The Bolts now own a 4-5 win-loss record after snapping a two-game losing streak. Newsome said he wants to play even on a one-day break, especially with Meralco fighting for its playoff life in its final two games.

“We have a game on Sunday,” said Newsome. “Don’t have too much time in between games. We will do our best to get ready. I’ll do my best to get ready for the next game on Sunday against Magnolia, and do whatever I can to be available.”

Newsome finished with 15 points, six rebounds, and three assists for Meralco before going down with the injury.

“I think I can play. It’s more of right in the muscles, kind off relax a bit because it’s tight from the hit. Other than that, everything else is okay,” said Newsome.

“I’ll be okay and I’ll see you guys on Sunday,” he told reporters afterwards.