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In a series of highly unfortunate events, Alas Pilipinas and Spikers’ Turf star blocker Kim Malabunga hurts both ankles, even dislocating his right, after landing on a ball during the Criss Cross’ warmups
MANILA, Philippines – The new Spikers’ Turf conference is off to a very unfortunate start for the Criss Cross King Crunchers, and for the Alas Pilipinas national team by extension, as star middle blocker Kim Malabunga suffered a dislocated right ankle and a sprained left on Wednesday, October 16.
Per broadcast reports, Malabunga stepped on a stray ball as Criss Cross was warming up for its conference debut against the VNS Griffins, causing the unfortunate string of injuries. The national team veteran had to be carted off the court in a wheelchair and heavily iced by team physical therapists.
Malabunga is also the second Alas star to suffer a major injury after top weapon Bryan Bagunas suffered an undisclosed knee injury in the SEA V. League back in August.
Whether or not surgery will be needed, ankle dislocations will need around six to 12 weeks of rehabilitation, meaning Malabunga may very well be held out until the end of the current Spikers’ Turf conference.
The injury marks a huge and immediate blow to Criss Cross’ Invitational Conference title hopes, as it is the only team arguably well-equipped enough to threaten the overly stacked defending champion Cignal HD Spikers.
Without Malabunga, the King Crunchers are expected to heavily lean on the likes of Rex Intal, Gian Glorioso, and Chumason Njigha for net defense, and the likes of Nico Almendras, Ysay Marasigan, and reigning Open Conference MVP Jude Garcia on the wings.
In a display of overt dominance, Criss Cross still wrecked VNS in its debut game, 25-14, 25-15, 25-15, joining D’Navigators on top with a 1-0 start. – Rappler.com
