Cansino back, hopes to help Bolts’ playoff bid

CJ Cansino (with ball) attacks the defense. —PBA IMAGES

CJ Cansino returned to the Meralco Bolts’ lineup on Friday night after being sidelined for two games due to a hip injury.

His return, though, wasn’t as positive as he hoped.

For one, the Bolts’ bout with Magnolia at Ninoy Aquino Stadium was delayed for almost 30 minutes due to strong rains affecting the venue.

That, plus Meralco was blown out by Magnolia, 105-88, before the night was over.

That loss gave Cansino a bigger purpose in his return. What started out as a plan to return to action has turned into the urgent goal of helping the Bolts improve on their playoff hopes.

“It is what it is. Injuries are part of a career. You just need to overcome it,” he told the Inquirer of his recent injury. “I’m kind of used to injuries by now, so I just accepted it and looked at what I need to work on.”

The former State U and Santo Tomas standout logged 15 points and three assists in 26 minutes of action.

But that wasn’t enough to rescue Meralco, which dropped to the bottom of Group B with a 2-5 (win-loss) record.

But with the Bolts still within a realistic shot of clinching a playoff berth, Cansino remains upbeat.

“I always think that when I’m given an opportunity, I see it as a responsibility. I have to perform because the PBA is no joke, you need to perform. You need to accept whatever’s given to you.” INQ