THE University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has reduced University of the Philippines (UP) Head Coach Bo Perasol’s suspension from the original three games to two matches.
UAAP commissioner for basketball Jensen Ilagan reduced the punishment after reportedly Perasol profusedly apologized for his unsportsmanlike conduct during the Fighting Maroons’ loss to the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the first round of the men’s basketball tournament.
The UAAP statement on Monday said Perasol more importantly apologized to referee Jaime Rivano who he tried to attack with clenched fists.
“Last Saturday [meeting] was the first time our office heard directly from Coach Bo and we appreciate his sincerity and evident humility in expressing his regret regarding the incident between him and referee Rivano which happened last September 29,” Ilagan said.
“Coach Bo emphasized how he deeply regretted his actions towards the official and extended his apology towards the UAAP Board, organization, and the entire community.”
Perasol will return to the bench when UP faces University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday at 4 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The league supported Ilagan’s decision in reducing Perasol’s penalty.
“The UAAP, through the Board of Managing Directors and Board of Trustees, maintains that it will support and respect the Office of the Commissioner with regard to any technical concern,” Executive Director Rebo Saguisag said.
“It is also well within the Commissioner’s power to reconsider on the ground of newly discovered evidence and/or developments such as availing in this case,” he added.
Perasol was handed two technical fouls with 6:23 left in the third quarter of the contest as he displayed “continuous flagrant acts of aggression” towards Rivano. His action resulted in a three-game ban.
Ilagan reminded members of the UAAP community to exert restraint and discipline, not just toward officials but to “everyone on the court.”
“Mr. Perasol and every member of the UAAP are hereby reminded that any further unsportsmanlike acts on their part will be dealt with the full extent of the league,” said Ilagan.