ROGER Pogoy's comeback from a serious health issue couldn't have come at a perfect time for TNT.
The Tropang Giga welcomed back with huge open arms one of their top gunners just as they capped their elimination round campaign in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
Although not yet in perfect game shape, Pogoy tallied 11 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals in a 116-96 victory over Phoenix Sunday night that clinched for the franchise the eighth and last playoffs berth of the season-opening meet.
It was the first game in six months or since last year's FIBA World Cup for the 31-year-old Pogoy after being diagnosed with an inflammation of the heart muscles or otherwise known as myocarditis.
His return came just in time for the quarterfinals where the no. 8 seeded Tropang Giga will face top seed Magnolia, which enjoys a twice-to-beat edge.
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Tough the task may be, but the Tropang Giga are just glad to see Pogoy up and running and joining them again on court.
"It's a welcome sight having Roger back," said coach Jojo Lastimosa. "His energy was infectious, and Roger being Roger, if he can score, he will play defense all night."
Initially, Pogoy was expected to miss six months as he recovers from his heart ailment.
But a miracle came along the way, as Pogoy described it, when doctors cleared him to play just after three months of rest and medication.
Lastimosa and the entire TNT squad naturally, were ecstatic about Pogoy's comeback, which gave them an added kick heading to their quarterfinals campaign.
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"We're just happy seeing him play for a while there. Akala namin si Roger matatagalan siya. First prognosis was six months that he will be out. But he's back after three months, and that's great news for all of us," said the TNT coach and team manager.
But while he may be back in harness, the overall health of Pogoy remains a priority for TNT, according to Lastimosa.
"(It's) not only (great) on a career standpoint, but just for Roger being healthy again," he said. "Whatever happens to us right now is just going to be a bonus."(RG)
