Calvin Oftana Diagnosed with Mild Ankle Sprain After Iraq Win

on
by Lou Reyes

Gilas Pilipinas' Calvin Oftana works around an Iraqi defender in their 2025 FIBA Asia Cup game. Photo: FIBA.

Calvin Oftana avoided a serious setback after tests confirmed he suffered only a mild Grade 1 sprain in his right ankle during Gilas Pilipinas’ crucial win over Iraq in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.

Team doctor Randy Molo gave the assessment following post-game evaluation, providing some relief for the national squad after their 66-57 victory in Jeddah, which kept their tournament hopes alive. A Grade 1 sprain is considered minor compared to more severe ligament injuries.

The incident occurred with 3:19 left in the match when Oftana landed on the foot of Iraq’s Ihab Al-Zuhairi. The forward immediately grimaced in pain and grabbed his ankle before being helped to the bench by team manager Alfrancis Chua and physical therapist Arcee Cua.

Despite the encouraging diagnosis, Oftana’s availability for Gilas’ quarterfinal qualification game remains uncertain. Typical recovery for a Grade 1 sprain ranges from one to three weeks, which puts his status in question given the quick turnaround in the tournament schedule.

This injury comes on the heels of a series of ankle issues for the TNT standout, who has dealt with sprains on both feet since the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs. Those concerns initially cast doubt on his participation in the Asia Cup, but he was eventually cleared to join the lineup.

For now, Gilas will monitor his progress closely as they prepare for the next phase of competition, hoping their versatile scorer can recover in time to contribute in the knockout rounds.