The UAAP handed down stern warnings to DLSU Green Archers coach Topex Robinson and UP Fighting Maroons player Reyland Torres, who were involved in a third-quarter altercation during La Salle’s game against UP in Round 1.
The UAAP has issued its official decision on the altercation surrounding the DLSU Green Archers and the UP Fighting Maroons during their first round meeting at the Mall of Asia Arena on October 6.
Following a scuffle that turned into a word war at the sidelines during the third quarter of La Salle’s 68-56 win over UP, the league issued “stern warnings” to both DLSU head coach Topex Robinson and UP guard Reyland Torres for “unsportsmanlike behavior”.
Allegations spread that Robinson spat at Torres, resulting in a shouting match between that saw both benches almost cleared before the situation was diffused by officials on the court.
[RELATED: La Salle, UP coaches express contrasting views on heated exchange in UAAP rivalry game]
While the spitting incident--among other allegation--could not be “conclusively proven”, the UAAP said that both parties’ actions were not in line with the league's values.
“The investigation has revealed that both individuals displayed behaviors that do not reflect the values of sportsmanship upheld by the UAAP and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA),” read the statement.
“Specifically, it was found that Mr. Torres passed in very close proximity to Coach Robinson twice. Coach Robinson, in turn, responded with language unbecoming of a coach.”
The statement emphasized that any future instances of such behavior would result in “stricter penalties”.
“The UAAP emphasizes that it does not condone any form of unsportsmanlike behavior, as such actions are contrary to the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, as well as the ideals of fair play that the league intends to develop and instill through amateur sports.” the statement said.
Robinson is thus expected to be at the sidelines when the Green Archers meet the UE Red Warriors in their second round encounter later this Saturday, October 12, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Meanwhile, Torres will also be available to play for UP when they battle the UST Growling Tigers on Sunday at the same venue.
Currently, both teams are tied at 6-1 with La Salle ahead in the standings due to the win over the other rule.