Dwight Ramos has been ruled out of the FIBA Asia Cup 2022, a huge blow to Gilas Pilipinas which is still reeling from a series of misfortunes due to injuries.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announced the setback on Sunday, July 10.
Ramos, who was one of the core players of the national team, was reportedly suffering from medial tibial stress syndrome or shin splints.
According to the SBP statement, the 6-foot-4 forward has been dealing with pain in his leg for the past week but it has become too much for Ramos to overcome and could not join the practice anymore.
Rhenz Abando is expected to take Ramos’ spot in the roster after being initially placed as a reserve.
“Gilas Pilipinas Men will now attempt to replace Ramos from the lineup with Rhenz Abando. This will be brought up during the technical meeting before the start of the tournament by Gilas team manager Butch Antonio,” the statement added.
“We will definitely miss Dwight who’s one of our starters,” said Gilas Pilipinas Men Program Director and Head Coach Chot Reyes. “But that’s the value of having a pool and the reason why Rhenz is making the trip with the team.”
Without Ramos, eyes will be on his fellow B.League imports Ray Parks Jr. and Thirdy Ravena to pick up the slack.
Ramos is averaging 15.5 points, seven rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.5 steals in 28 minutes of play in the four games he suited up for the national team during the qualifying windows of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.