Pogoy considers it a miracle to play again after illness
FAITH kept TNT star RR Pogoy going when he was diagnosed with myocarditis — an inflammation of the heart muscle — that could lead to a six-month layoff, if not end his career.
He considered it a “miracle” that he recovered in less time and even got to return to playing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup some four months after his heart condition was initially discovered.
Mr. Pogoy who felt ill after the World Cup last September, underwent tests and treatment and eventually failed to join Gilas Pilipinas in the Asian Games campaign.
Mr. Pogoy was actually cleared to play as early as December but he and the team felt he needed a little more time to get his wind back.
And last Sunday, 134 days after suiting up for Gilas in its 96-75 romp over China, the Cebuano sniper got his first taste of action again. Coming off the bench, Mr. Pogoy made his first shot off a spin move and knocked down three triples the rest of the way for an 11-point outing in 20 minutes.
More importantly, Mr. Pogoy’s inspiring presence and infectious energy helped the TNT Tropang Giga beat Phoenix, 116-96, and clinch the last ticket to the quarterfinals at 5-6. — Olmin Leyba