San Beda University head coach Yuri Escueta is hoping to have a complete lineup as the NCAA Season 100 gets deeper, but the third year coach isn't rushing big man Bismarck Lina to return from his injury.
Escueta revealed that Lina remains in recovery following an ACL injury he sustained nine months ago during his stint with Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 at the Asian Games.
But while the promising bruiser has been attending the Red Lions' practices already, Escueta said there is no definite time on his prized recruit's return.
"Bismarck is naka-nine months off sa ACL repair, but again hindi namin siya minamadali," Escueta said on Saturday.
"‘Pag ready siya, makikita niyo na lang siya na nakabihis na. Pero he’s been with us, practicing."
Even without a still incomplete lineup, the Red Lions showed their might in a 79-63 beating of Lyceum of the Philippines University during the season opener, setting the right tone for their title defense bid.
Bryan Sajonia led the way with 18 points while old reliables Yuki Andrada and James Payosing chipped in 13 and wight markers apiece to repeat over their semifinals foe last year.
Escueta, though, revealed they expect to have the former UP Fighting Maroon midway through the first round at the earliest, knowing full well what the 6-foot-5 cager can bring to the table.
"Earliest middle of first round, ang conservative start of second round."
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
