PBA: Ginebra forward Joe Devance to have stem cell procedure in Germany

By Waylon Galvez

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel forward Joe Devance is set to have ‘stem cell’ treatment next month in Germany as part of his preparation for his 14th season in the Philippine Basketball Association.

Devance is scheduled to leave March 9 for the medical procedure that famous athletes like the late Kobe Bryant had which helped him recover from an Achilles injury.

Devance, a versatile 6-foot-7 forward, has been bothered by several injuries over the years with knee pains and an afflicted right foot that recently required surgery.

“My foot still hurt because I had surgery the last time,” said Devance, who played limited minutes in the Finals of the PBA Governors’ Cup against the Meralco Bolts.

“My foot is still aching a bit, my knees are always going to hurt a bit because I don’t have cartilage on my knees anymore. I played my whole career like this and it’s just getting worse and worse.”

Devance said it was his decision – and on his own expense – that he’s taking this treatment.

“I’m planning to go to Germany soon so I’m going to get a stem cell. I’m going to have 10 shots,” said Devance, who recently signed a fresh one-year contract with Ginebra.

The treatment, according to Devance, is from March 9 to 12 and would require two to three weeks to recover. To get fully ready for his return, however, it may take a month before he makes his season debut.

The 45th PBA season opens March 6, with Ginebra starting ts Philippine Cup campaign March 8.

When healthy, Devance is one of the best at the forward position as he plays both the three and four positions with equal effectiveness. His versatility also allows Ginebra coach Tim Cone to use Devance as playmaker on offense and a defensive matchup at the center spot.

In his career, Devance has bagged 10 PBA championships, one with Alaska, five with Magnolia (formerly San Mig Super Coffee) and four – so far – with Ginebra all under Cone.

Source: Manila Bulletin