De La Salle University’s Jacob Cortez and head coach Topex Robinson checking in on the injured Kean Baclaan. Photo from UAAP Media.MANILA — De La Salle University was in shock as another Green Archer succumbed to injury on Wednesday, just three days after Mason Amos suffered an MCL tear.
This time, it was another recruit in Kean Baclaan, as the former National University star was stretchered off the floor with still over four minutes remaining in what would be an overtime affair against University.
READ: Baclaan’s injury clouds La Salle’s epic comeback OT win vs. UE
Baclaan’s knee was inadvertently hit by Wello Lingolingo in the said incident, with the Muntinlipa native eventually needing a wheelchair to exit the Mall of Asia Arena.
“The way he was screaming, I’ve never heard him like that,” said La Salle guard Jacob Cortez on the incident.
But rather than turning too emotional, the former San Beda University guard instead used it as fuel to steer La Salle to victory.
“It was a sign for us to step up, and everyone stepped up today,” said Cortez. “And I was super eager. But again, I had to lock in and focus because in moments like that, I tend to be extra aggressive.”
“Good thing, I was able to relax and stay composed, and I got my teammates to stay composed as well,” he added.
Baclaan shared late Wednesday evening that he is set to undergo a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for his knee, leaving his status for their next games still up in the air.
Regardless of this, however, Cortez vows to continue taking over as his teammate recovers.
“Every game, I just learn more,” said Cortez. “It’s all about learning, and now we have all the chances to do that more.”