An unstoppable and raging John Amores sparked a commotion in a lopsided match against College of St. Benilde and assaulted its bench during the second round of the NCAA Season 98 men's basketball tournament Tuesday, Nov. 8, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Coming from a short altercation with Mark Sangco, all hell broke loose beginning the 3:22 mark when Amores, who was actually being stopped by his teammates, rushed towards the Blazers bench and punched Jimboy Pasturan and Taine Davis.
After a solid punch to Davis, who was also trying control the situation, Amores also shoved Migs Oczon before being sent to the dugout.
Davis was left hurt and down on the floor as the Blazers were eventually ruled as the winners, 71-51.
The incident, however, will undergo further investigation as possible sanctions on Amores have yet to be announced.
The NCAA Management Committee has decided to halt the match to avoid further escalation and ensure safety of the players and staff.
"This is without prejudice to further investigation that may cause sanctions to players and coaching staff of both teams," a statement read.
A huge turnaround bridging into the third period enabled the Blazers, who improved to a 10-3 record, to pull away for good and eventually lead by as many as 20 points.
Pasturan led with 18 points on top of four rebounds and three assists, Will Gozum hauled 15 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists, while Robi Nayve had 12 points and three assists.
Marwin Dionisio was the lone bright spot for the Heavy Bombers, who fell to a 6-7 slate, as he scored 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds.