The season of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Altas started on a bizarre note.
Prior to tip-off of their opening game against the College of Saint Benilde Blazers, the Altas wore their dark jersey instead of their assigned light uniforms. And the Blazers, a team that was supposed to be the “dark team”, made a protest prior to tip-off, delaying the start of the game by 43 minutes.
After a long meeting between the tournament officials and the management committee representatives of both schools, it was decided that the game should push through since the jerseys of both squads were of different colors. However, the league has yet to make a decision regarding the matter.
“Paguusapan pa yan. We have to wait for whatever results. It’s not a decision, but we have to wait for the ano kasi may mga bagong ground rules at pag-uusapan pa,” said Cristobal, a former head coach of Perpetual.
“Well, as far as protest of whatever result of the game, basta kung ano ang nakikita natin, normal muna lahat yan. Wala munang ano kasi may mga ground rules na pinaguusapan pa.”
Perpetual were assessed a technical foul to start the game as penalty to the lapse they committed. Saint Benilde rookie Matthew Johnson converted the free throw, giving the Blazers a 1-0 lead to start the game.
The last time an incident like this occurred in the seniors division was back in 2008. Ironically, it also involved the Saint Benilde Blazers when they took on the San Beda Red Lions. San Beda legend Sam Ekwe wore the wrong uniform and the league had to overturn San Beda’s win.
