The PBA imposed a 20,000-peso fine on Barako Bull Energy forward Rico Maierhofer following his attempt to swat away a shot using a shoe during the Energy’s affair with the San Miguel Beermen last Wednesday.
Maierhofer made a field goal in the second quarter before losing his right shoe. The Beermen quickly rushed to their frontcourt, leaving Maierhofer with no recourse but to pick up his shoe and play defense on the other end.
He did manage to force a turnover although the Commissioner’s Office states the act is deemed unprofessional.
The full statement is written below:
“Present game rules are broad enough to cover the act of Rico Maierhofer. While not among those acts specifically prohibited by existing rules, said act can be considered to be in breach of the general conduct of games. Hence, it can be classified as a technical foul for using a foreign object as an aid in performing an offensive or defensive move.
More importantly, it is viewed by this Office as blatant misconduct that disrespects/mocks the game and unprofessional in nature. Mr. Maierhofer is hereby fined the amount of twenty thousand pesos (P 20,000.00).”
So much for appearing on Bleacher Report, I guess.
