The TNT Katropa’s incoming import for the upcoming Governors’ Cup, Michael Craig, clarified what had transpired in Game Three of the 2017 Commissioner’s Cup Finals Sunday night, insisting that he had no hand whatsoever in the incident.
“Nothing really happened,” said the 6-foot-5 American shortly after the Katropa’s 109-97 loss at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.
The incident took place right at the end of the first half, with TNT ahead by a point, 47-46. As both teams headed into the dugout, SMB assistant coach Boycie Zamar and Craig, all of a sudden, were caught in a tussle.
The bouncers managed to avert the near-exchange. As it turns out, Zamar had come to the defense of SMC governor Robert Non and another official, who, according to him, was hit by the court’s guard rail swung by Craig.
But Craig claimed innocence in the issue, denying the accusation made by the long-time mentor.
“Somebody swung the gate open and it happened to hit one of the fans… I don’t know. I didn’t swing the gate. I don’t know what happened,” Craig insisted. “I was trying to go to the locker room and somebody swung the gate open.
“I put my hands up.”
Craig and fellow import Mike Myers’ presence was felt in the bout with their off-court antics. They also engaged in a verbal altercation with SMB midway in the second frame, which led to them being ejected from the VIP section.
Zamar was reached for further comments, but declined.