San Juan assistant coach Yong Garcia was slapped with a three-game suspension along with a P60,000 fine after spitting on opposing player Lordy Casajeros during the Knights’ 90-74 victory over Valenzuela at the FilOil Flying V Arena on Monday, May 30.
Garcia was called for a disqualifying foul and was thrown out of the game following a review where he was shown spitting on Casajeros’ shoulder who stood beside the San Juan bench during a dead-ball situation late in the first half.
MPBL condemned the incident and was quick to hand disciplinary actions on Garcia who, aside from the suspension and fines, will be required to present a negative RT-PCR test result 72 hours prior to his return to the team.
“Considering the severity of the act and the situation and by the powers and authority vested upon the League Commissioner, MPBL hereby sanctions Assistant Coach Yong Garcia with a three-game suspension and a fine of Sixty Thousand Pesos (PhP60,000.00). Assistant Coach Yong Garcia will not be allowed to return to the League until the said fine is fully paid,” said MPBL in a statement on Tuesday, May 31.
“MPBL condemns any and all kinds of unsportsmanlike conduct, especially deliberate acts of violence. May this be a reminder to everyone who wishes to tarnish the reputation and image of not just the League and all of its stakeholders but the game of basketball itself,” the league added.
Garcia has already issued an apology, saying that his actions were "unacceptable and unprofessional behavior as a basketball coach." He also apologized to Casajeros, the Valenzuela team and the MPBL Management.
“I would like to sincerely apologize to Lordi Casajeros, the Valenzuela Team Manager, Jon Santos, the coaching staff, its players, the city of Valenzuela and to the MPBL Management Team,” said Garcia.
“My actions were uncalled for and I could have handled it so much better. There is no place for that behavior in sports. I am truly truly sorry,” he added