UAAP News: Kyles Lao suffers untimely ACL injury

The University of the Philippines may have to make the most of their basketball journey at least perhaps until next year minus one man – Kyles Jefferson T. Lao.

Kyles Lao (Facebook/ Instagram)
Kyles Lao (Facebook/ Instagram)

The 2013 UAAP Rookie of the Year and former Xavier School star suffered a suspected ACL injury in the second quarter while playing defense against the DLSU Green Archers. UP eventually bowed to DLSU, 82-79.

The injury was not a result of any physical contact and said to be incurred accidentally as Lao was trying to employ the defensive trap against the Green Archers.

After being checked out by doctors, it was confirmed that Lao had indeed suffered an ACL injury. People close to Kyles however said that they will be seeking a second opinion before taking the next step which will most likely be a knee operation. This will be Kyles Lao’s first major injury in his young basketball career.

“I felt a pop but it wasn’t at the front but at the back so I didn’t think it was ACL. I will have it checked again and then undergo MRI,” says Kyles during a casual call.

If Lao does require surgery, his loss will be a big blow to the Maroons campaign for the coming UAAP season and new coach Joe Ward may have to look at some other players to step up in place of the fallen Kyles Lao.

Here’s wishing Kyles all the best and hoping he comes back better and stronger.