by Brian Yalung
The Central Escolar University (CEU) Scorpions will face Go for Gold-CSB in the PBA D-League Foundation Group playoffs with a decimated lineup as more than half of the roster undergoes investigation for alleged point-shaving violations.
CEU officials have informed the PBA of the sad turn of events where at least nine players were reportedly caught red-handed transacting with various individuals involved in betting spreads. Foreign-player Malik Diouf is not included in that list.
The PBA Commissioner’s Office has yet to comment on the matter. Likewise, CEU head coach Derrick Pumaren has declined to make a statement as of now although he apparently had been appraised of the delicate situation.
The Manila Bulletin obtained screenshots of the transactions. According to a reliable source, several players had come forward to admit their involvement and were the ones who furnished school officials with online evidence.
As of this writing, CEU officials are still conducting a thorough probe to uncover the width and depth of the violation.
The Scorpions are to meet a formidable Scratchers side in a knockout encounter.
With only six to eight players suiting up, and the dark cloud of a game-fixing scandal hanging over them, the Scorpions face as formidable task against Go for Gold-CSB.