Reyes respects Fiba sanction, but denies inciting unsportsmanlike behavior
Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes insisted that he did not give out instructions that “incited unsportsmanlike behavior” resulting to the brawl between Gilas Pilipinas and Australia in the 2018 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers last July 2.
Facing a one-game ban and a CHF 10,000 (P535,000) disciplinary fine, Reyes accepted Fiba’s ruling but denied that he ever gave instructions to “hurt” the Australians despite Fiba’s findings.
“The SBP has released its statement on the FIBA decision, and I stand with our national federation in respecting FIBA’s findings,” said Reyes in a post on social media after the release of Fiba’s sanctions on Thursday.
READ: 10 Gilas players, 2 coaches suspended by Fiba for brawl
“I have never given instructions to hurt nor incite unsportsmanlike behavior. In my 20 years as head coach in the PBA and seven years at the helm of Gilas, I have never been involved in any such incident.”
💪🇵🇭❤️ pic.twitter.com/UvB7OOCCfD
— Chot Reyes (@coachot) July 19, 2018
Reyes was caught on television telling his players during a huddle to “hit somebody” and “put someone on his ass.”
He had already clarified in an earlier interview with ESPN5 that all he meant was “don’t give a layup, foul early, hit somebody, put him down so that the referees will call a foul.”
READ: Fiba ban chance for other players to step up for Gilas, says Alapag
The seasoned mentor, though, apologized again for the ugly brawl, which merited suspensions for Gilas players and coaches and a hefty fine for Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
“I deeply regret what happened last July 2, and again apologize together with our players and staff. As we work to put all this behind us, we reiterate our commitment to serve our flag. Laban. Pilipinas. Puso!”
With Reyes and assistant Jong Uichico out for Gilas’ next game against Iran on September 13, SBP has yet to name a substitute coach.
