For the first time, a coach has been fined by the Philippine Basketball Association for an ‘unsportsmanlike’ act committed in a tune-up game.
Blackwater head coach Jeffrey Cariaso has been fined an undisclosed amount by the league after a meeting with commissioner Willie Marcial on Monday at the PBA Office in Pasig.
“Bihira ako mag-fine sa exhibition pero yung ginawa hindi maganda,” said Marcial.
Last Tuesday, during a tune-up match between Blackwater and Converge, Cariaso was seen entering the court and shoving a fastbreaking Aljun Melecio to stop an attempt.
In the prior play, Jeo Ambohot caught Tyrus Hill with a chasedown block.
The FiberXers has since sent the tape for review.
Apologetic was the player-turned-coach for the act he did, bared Marcial.
“Si Coach Jeff nakausap ko. Nag-sorry at inamin yung ginawa niya. So sabi ko, hindi na puwede maulit yun kasi kung magreklamo ka, sa referees na lang,” said the amiable sports executive.
Also suspended by the league were the three referees who called the game.
The game officials did not give any infractions to Cariaso after the incident.