Roach Prohibits Pacquiao From Playing In The PBA While In Training Camp For Chris Algieri Fight

Six-time Trainer of The Year Freddie Roach has banned his ward Manny Pacquiao from playing in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) while in training camp. Roach wanted Pacquiao to get in shape and stay injury-free for the the Filipino's upcoming fight against Chris Algieri in November in Macau.

Roach told GMA 7, a local Philippine news station, that he wouldn't allow Pacquiao to play basketball even for a short period of time. However, Roach has said that he will not ban Pacquiao from assuming his responsibilities as the coach of the Kia Sorentos.

"He can coach, but he can't play (one month before the fight)," Roach said. "That's our agreement," he added.

Roach arrived in General Santos City from Los Angeles on Oct. 6. He will take over Pacquiao's training camp in preparation for his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title defense against Algieri. Roach has brought along with him two sparring partners, Stan Martiniouk and Mike Jones. Two more sparring partners, including Ukrainian boxer Victor Postol, will be arriving from the U.S. anytime now, Inquirer Sports reported.

In June, Filipino eight division boxing world champion has been named as the playing coach of the new PBA team Kia Sorentos. He made his professional basketball debut in a pre-season game between the Sorentos and Blackwater on Oct. 4. Pacquiao played for 10 minutes. He managed to score one point, one rebound, and committed a couple of turnovers in an 88-77 loss.

Pacquaio's team will begin their regular PBA Season on Oct.19. Pacquiao will fly to Manila to support his team. He said he will be able to fly to Manila because he has no training scheduled on Sundays. "Maybe I would play for two minutes then focus on coaching," Pacquiao said. "This is just to show support for my team and the PBA."

Pacquiao said he knew how important it is for him to stay in tip-top shape for Algieri bout. He said that Roach and his fans have nothing to worry about because he knows how to take good care of himself. "I know what to do inside the court to avoid injury."

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