Ivan Aska still SMB import as replacement down with flu

Ivan Aska will continue to reinforce San Miguel in the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup until Bennie Boatwright, who is currently recovering from a severe flu, is ready to take over.

Team management has confirmed that the 23-year-old Boatwright is still in sickbay and unfit to play.

As a result, the 6-foot-8 Aska will see action one more time as the Beermen clash with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and the TNT Tropang Giga on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

“He’s not yet well enough. Siguro mga one game pa,” said SMB head coach Jorge Gallent.

“Hindi niya pa kaya,” added team manager Gee Abanilla.

Boatwright, who was a teammate of former Magnolia import Nick Rakocevic in the USC Trojan men’s basketball program, recently arrived in the country to replace the 33-year-old Aska after the Beermen went on an alarming two-game slide.

However, he fell ill shortly after his arrival and was unable to make his anticipated debut against Brgy. Ginebra.

Aska saw action against the Gin Kings and contributed 10 points, eight rebounds, and three assists in a morale-boosting 95-82 victory.

The victory over the defending champs not only improved SMB’s record to 4-3 but also tied them with their victim and upcoming opponent.

After TNT, San Miguel will clash with quarterfinalist Phoenix Super LPG on Christmas day at the Big Dome.