Fit-again Kerby Raymundo cleared for return as he rejoins Ginebra practice

Kerby Raymundo was averaging 8.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.03 assists this season before suffering a bruised left knee that kept him out of Ginebra's first six games in the Governors Cup. Jerome Ascano

KERBY Raymundo had his first practice with Barangay Ginebra on Tuesday a month since suffering bone bruise on his left knee, offering a glimmer of hope for the struggling squad.

The veteran Raymundo rejoined the team’s five-on-five practice and said he has been cleared to suit up for Ginebra's game on Saturday against similarly fading Rain or Shine.

His return is another positive sign for a Ginebra team that has won just two of six games so far, coming just a day after injured big man Japeth Aguilar declared that he will be ready to return in two weeks.

“Nakasali na rin ako sa five-on-five namin kanina. Pero wala pa gaanong hangin,” Raymundo told Spin.ph after the team’s practice.

The one-time PBA Finals MVP awardee said he is eager to play again and help the Gin Kings, who are coming off a painful 86-89 loss to the San Mig Coffee Mixers on Sunday night.

“Magsu-suit up na ako this Saturday, pero sila coach na ang bahala kung ipapasok nila ako,” he added.

The Gin Kings obviously need his inside presence especially since the team lost high-leaping center Aguilar two weeks ago to a sprained MCL in his right knee during a 91-104 loss to Barako Bull.

While trade rumors still point to Raymundo’s possible move to Meralco where he could reunite with Bolts coach Ryan Gregorio, the 32-year-old Letran product said he’ll leave his future to God as he tries to get back in shape in the soonest possible time.

“Kung ano ang will ni God sa akin, basta naman ako, I’ll just do my part and be in shape para makatulong sa team,” he added.

Raymundo is in the final month of his original contract he signed with San Mig Coffee just before he was traded to Barangay Ginebra early last year.

He averaged 8.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.03 assists in 35 games this season prior to the injury.