IF ANYONE had doubts about the health of Cebuano guard Jerick Cañada’s knees, his recent play has definitely put that all aside.
Not even a year after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear, the former Don Bosco standout has more than proven his capability, leading the Bulacan Kuyas to a 59-57 win over the formidable Basilan Steel in the MPBL Datu Cup, scoring 17 points to go with seven rebounds and seven assists on Tuesday night.
Not only that, Cañada also helped lead Go for Gold to the PBA D-League Foundation Cup finals, scoring 18 points on a perfect 6-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc in their 103-75 win over Marinerong Pilipino in the semis.
In a talk with Cebu Daily News, the former Blackwater guard said it hasn’t been a month since he was given clearance to play on court once again. He even admitted that although he is already 100 percent, it’s still the mental challenge that he’s sparring with.
“I have 100 percent trust in my knee. It’s just that there are times when there are moves that I am apprehensive with. Usually, when you’re coming off an ACL injury, it’s the mental toughness that’s difficult to get back,” Cañada said.
Cañada added that he most certainly did not expect to be playing on two different teams in two different leagues at the same time.
“But when coach Charles (Tiu) called about playing for Go for Gold, I didn’t think twice because these opportunities don’t come often. But of course, I had to ask permission from Bulacan and coach Britt (Reroma),” explained Cañada.