Calvin Abueva. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Games and Amusements Board chairman Baham Mitra hopes the suspension of Calvin Abueva will have a positive effect on the Phoenix Pulse star, who needs to complete just a few more requirements before his reinstatement is tackled by the PBA.
Abueva has been suspended by the league for more than a year for his clothesline strike on TNT import Terrence Jones and his lewd interaction with a courtside fan but is close to a return pending the completion of therapy sessions with a psychologist.
Mitra said he supports Abueva’s reinstatement as long as he complies with requirements and also shows that he has changed his ways.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial gave Abueva two other conditions for his reinstatement, including submitting himself to a drug test and community service.
“I hope he complies,” said Mitra at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum webcast on Tuesday.
“If he has been disciplined, maybe he can present what steps and proper therapy sessions he has undergone.”
Mitra said the GAB was aware of Abueva’s actions against Jones and deemed it “unprofessional.”
“As you know, you have observed his improper and unprofessional decorum in the games,” said Mitra.
“I want to remind all our PBA players that they have a license with GAB. We don’t want to overstep, but we are here. We are watching you. Turning pro has responsibilities.”
But the GAB chief is hopeful that “The Beast” tones down his antics when he returns.
“I believe in him,” said Mitra. “He is a good player. He is athletic. He is prolific and he can help his team, but I really hope he is tamed down a bit. It’s not right sometimes because he hurts people and risks injuries which also affects his livelihood and that of other players.”