Fight and Flight

From My Manila Standard Column 1/28/11

When Ryan Reyes received news of his brother’s tragic death, he was absolutely crushed. A drunk driver went the wrong way and crashed into his brother Raymond’s car. He perished alongside his girlfriend. The driver is in a coma.

(Do not ever drink and drive. It’s not just about you. It’s also about the other people you place in imminent danger.)

It was absolutely astonishing to have Ryan go on that flight to Bacolod the day after, and it was mind-blowing to have him practice well and play game 1 of the finals with so much grit and determination. Coach Chot believed that Ryan needed basketball. “I don’t know if it’s a conscious effort on his part but I would l think that basketball is his solace or sanctuary that he’s using to deal with it.”

The whole team was very respectful of Ryan’s situation. They made sure that he knew that they were all there for him, feeling his loss and supporting him no matter what. “We are amazed that he is here. The fact that Ryan wants to be here and play in these finals is something we have to respect and rally behind.

Game 1’s victory in Victorias saw Ryan churn up 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. He showed what he was made of.

Game 2 came and Ryan was still on the court, fighting alongside his teammates. The warrior had a lot of fight in him, contributing 7 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists.

Talk and Text again emerged victorious against a ferocious Beermen squad. Good thing the game didn’t go into overtime.

Before the Cuneta Astrodome’s stands were clear of its spectators, Ryan was already out the door, rushing to catch his flight to California to attend his brother’s burial.

I wouldn’t be surprised if there were powers that be that made sure he’d make that flight. In a post game interview Coach Chot said “It was very important for us to win this game because we don’t have Ryan in our next game”. Ryan is expected to be back by Game 4. If all goes well for the team, they could be All Filipino Champions by Sunday night.


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