Though the rules of the International Basketball Federation do not govern the National Basketball Association and vice versa, the NBA can impose a punishment on its players if the athlete does something that is detrimental to the league.
Monday evening, Thon Maker – a 7-foot-1 center who plays for the Milwaukee Bucks – was part of the huge brawl between players of Gilas Pilipinas and the Australian Boomers.
Based on videos, Maker attacked naturalized Filipino Andray Blatche from behind as Blatche hit one of Maker’s teammates. Filipino guard Terrence Romeo then clocked Maker on the back of the head. Seeing that it was Romeo, Maker quickly charged at the man, missing a flying kick, before figuring in a stand-off with Calvin Abueva.
According to the NBA’s constitution, the league has the right to punish a player if his “conduct does not conform to the standards of morality or does not comply with all federal, state, and local laws or is detremental to the NBA.”
Maker, who was born in Sudan but had to escape to Australia at the age of five, expressed his regret and apologies on social media platform Twitter.
“Being from a war-torn country, basketball for me has always been a means to bring people together,” tweeted Maker, who was ejected from the game.
“I feel a great responsibility as an NBA player to carry myself in a way that promotes peace and unity. My hope is that this experience provides a springboard for discussion regarding security surrounding these games.
“I take responsibility for my actions knowing that they were a result of my desire to protect my teammates and myself. It is a tremendous honour to represent Australia, the Milwaukee Bucks and the NBA and my goal is to reflect that in my conduct and play.“
