The University Athletic Association of the Philippines has suspended University of the East head coach Chris Gavina for four games following his profanity-laced post-game remarks after the Red Warriors’ 111-110 overtime loss to De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament last Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
In an official statement released Saturday, the UAAP Board of Managing Directors said the penalty was imposed after Gavina “directed profanity-laced remarks and displayed unprofessional conduct toward the game officials” during a post-game interview.
“As a collegial body representing eight universities, the UAAP upholds the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and respect. Coach Gavina’s actions were contrary to these principles,” the statement read.
“As a teacher and leader, a coach sets a high standard for the student-athletes and the university community. His role extends beyond the sidelines — to teach discipline, humility, and respect for the game.”
Gavina’s suspension will take effect on Sunday, October 19, when UE faces Far Eastern University, and will continue through the team’s first three games of the second round.
The UAAP emphasized that the decision was made to uphold the league’s culture of integrity and accountability.
“The UAAP reiterates its commitment to fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and sportsmanship across all participating universities,” the statement added.
“Every coach, player, and official represents not only their respective institutions but also the spirit of the league. Actions that compromise these shared values will be met with appropriate disciplinary measures.”
Gavina’s suspension stemmed from a fiery outburst moments after UE’s loss to La Salle — a game in which the Red Warriors squandered a 21-point lead and saw guard Wello Lingolingo ejected on an unsportsmanlike foul (category 2) late in regulation.
Fuming over the call, Gavina unleashed an emotional tirade against the officiating crew, accusing them of costing his team its first win of the season.
“The first thing I want to say is I hope these three referees never f—— ref again in any of our games,” Gavina said.
“They did a complete disservice to the outcome of this game. The beauty of the competition was taken away because you call an unsportsmanlike on one of our best players on a loose ball.”
He went on to question the decision that led to Lingolingo’s ejection.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“You watch that video again,” he continued. “There’s no way on a loose ball, when there hasn’t been a whistle, that everyone going for it should get called for an unsportsmanlike. Call a regular foul! You call an unsportsmanlike on a play like that? Wello had 24 points at that moment. Twenty-four! They’re supposed to be the best of the best? Get the f— out of here.
“Yes, we squandered a 21-point lead, but hold these refs accountable. This is supposed to be the second-highest level of competitive basketball in the Philippines. The referees have to be held to the same accountability we demand from our players.”
Prior to Gavina’s sanction, the UAAP Commissioner’s Office had already announced on Friday, October 17, a three-game suspension for Wello Lingolingo for his unsportsmanlike foul (criteria 2) during the same game.
Lingolingo’s infraction, which came with 4:20 remaining in regulation, led to his ejection and turned the tide in favor of the Green Archers, who rallied to win in overtime.
The UAAP concluded its statement by reminding all coaches and players that discipline and respect remain at the heart of collegiate sports.
“The UAAP remains steadfast in promoting accountability and respect. Our mission is to ensure that competition remains fair, honorable, and reflective of the values we instill in every student-athlete.”
UE, now 0-6 in the tournament, will play FEU on Sunday without Gavina and Lingolingo. The Red Warriors aim to regroup amid a challenging stretch that has tested both their composure and resolve.
⚠️ WARNING: Profanity ⚠️#WATCH: Chris Gavina went on an expletive post-game rant after UE’s heartbreaking 111-110 OT loss to La Salle 🛡️🏀#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/2qrLjJYnI2
📹 @ickodeg /Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/MWfEmzB59I
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) October 15, 2025
