PBA: John Amores suspended one conference without pay

FILE–NorthPort Batang Pier player John Amores during a PBA Commissioner’s Cup game. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—The PBA has suspended NorthPort swingman John Amores for one conference following his involvement in a shooting incident recently.

Amores will be sitting out the entirety of the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup without pay, regardless of the outcome of his attempted homicide case, due to  “conduct detrimental to the league,” according to the league chief’s office.

The PBA announced the sanction on Friday, more than two weeks after Amores and his brother were charged for their involvement in a shooting after a basketball game in Lumban, Laguna.

READ: John Amores involved in shooting incident in Laguna–reports

The PBA has also set conditions for Amores’ return to the PBA.

“[I]n order for Amores to be allowed to play again in the PBA, he must without delay submit to counseling to address his anger and violent tendencies, and clearance to play must be obtained from his counsellor/s,” said Atty. Ogie Narvasa, sitting beside Commissioner Willie Marcial.

WATCH: Atty. Ogie Narvasa says John Amores of the Northport Batang Pier has been officially suspended from the league for next conference without pay, regardless of the verdict. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/GaJslkGRyy

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“Choice of the counseling program of Amores should be with the approval of the PBA, and the program must continue until cleared and terminated by the counsellor/s.”

Amores, who was banned indefinitely from the NCAA and expelled from the JRU men’s basketball team for his role in a violent on-court melee, will be allowed to practice and other activities with the Batang Pier during his suspension from the league.

READ: PBA ‘saddened’ by John Amores shooting incident

“Isolating him from his normal environment will not be helpful and healthy for his rehabilitation. He must learn to deal with his issues under as normal circumstances as possible,” said Narvasa.

“It is under normal settings, including the challenges and stress they create, where he can fully exercise tolerance and restraint. In any case, he will be subjected to stiffer penalties and restrictions should his violent tendencies erupt during team activities.”