University of the East center Precious Momowei will be out for the Red Warriors’ upcoming match against the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on Wednesday, November 13, at the UST Quadricentennial Arena.
The UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office issued a one-game suspension following two unsportsmanlike fouls Momowei committed in UE’s recent clash with the University of Santo Tomas on Saturday, November 9.
Per UAAP league rules, a player who is disqualified, thrown out, or ejected from a game for unsportsmanlike behavior is automatically prohibited from participating in the next game.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The first unsportsmanlike foul (Category 2) against Momowei was called at the 5:18 mark in the second quarter, followed by a second unsportsmanlike foul (Category 2) at the 5:07 mark in the fourth quarter, prompting his ejection.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
UE appealed the suspension but the UAAP Commissioner’s Office upheld the ruling, noting that both fouls fell under unsportsmanlike conduct.
Despite the suspension, UE is pursuing an appeal to the UAAP Board of Managing Directors regarding Momowei’s eligibility for post-season awards, which remains in review.
Momowei is averaging 12.92 points, 13.92 rebounds, 1.67 assists, and 1.25 steals per game this season.
The Red Warriors, who sit at third with a 6-6 standing, will now face the Blue Eagles without their anchor. A win by UE will clinch a playoff spot for a Final Four slot.
