Manila, Philippines – PBA unrestricted free agent Kerby Raymundo knows he can still play, but whether or not he will continue is a decision he has to make next year as plans his next move, dealing with a left knee injury that requires a surgery in the United States.
At 32 years old, Raymundo said he knows he can still compete at a high level in the pro league. His inspiration actually is Air21’s 40-year-old center Asi Taulava, who averages just below 10 points and a second-best 12.5 rebounds.
“It’s really inspiring to see Asi play,” said Raymundo when contacted by the Bulletin yesterday after working out at the Focus Athletics gym in Makati City. “Also, watching the game, I know in myself that I can still play.”
Raymundo was obtained by Meralco during an off-season trade with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in exchange for JayR Reyes, but he wasn’t offered a contract when he found out a tear (cartilage) in his left knee after consulting a specialist in the US three weeks ago.
Raymundo’s injury, according to his adviser/agent Danny Espiritu, is similar to the one former NBA player Grant Hill had, and the same procedure is required.
Last November, Raymundo went to the US to have a shot in his knee for temporary remedy but he felt pain again after nearly a month, reason why he’s considering a surgery by January 2014.
A surgery, if he decides to have one, requires a full eight months to recover.
Aside from that, since he doesn’t have a team, Raymundo will be the one who will shoulder the expenses, which will cost P4.5 million. That, he said, is guaranteed he will regain his playing form in time for the 40th PBA Season in November.
“Talagang pinag-iisipan ko, pinagpe-pray namin ng family ko kung itutuloy ko yung surgery or magre-retire na lang ako. I’m not worried kung saang team ako maglalaro pag naka-balik ako, alam ko naman na kayak o pa e, it takes time lang to polish my game,” said Raymundo.
“Pero sa ngayon, kung saan ako talaga leaning, kung mag-retire na lang ba and mag-business kami ng family ko, or surgery, 50-50 pa talaga,” added Raymundo (Waylon Galvez)