By MARK REY MONTEJO
University of the East coach Chris Gavina just got a slap in the wrist from the Commissioner’s Office on Friday but not from Board of Managing Directors the following day.
Composed of athletic directors, the Board dropped the hammer on the former PBA mentor, imposing a four-game suspension, a development that would likely hurt UE even more. The UE Warriors have yet to win in six games.
In a statement on Saturday evening, Oct. 18, the UAAP said Gavina’s actions during the UE–De La Salle post-game press conference were detrimental and against the league’s values.
“As a collegial body representing eight universities, the UAAP upholds the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and respect. Coach Gavina’s actions were contrary to these principles,” UAAP wrote.
“As a teacher and leader, a coach sets a high standard for the student-athletes and the university community,” it added.
The suspension will start in the team’s game against the Far Eastern University which is being played at presstime.
Last Wednesday, Oct. 15, the 46-year-old tactician vented his ire on the referees after the Red Warriors absorbed a 111-110 loss to the Green Archers at Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
Gavina blamed the game officials for the loss after they slapped red-hot Wello Lingolingo with a unsportsmanlike foul after diving into the right knee of La Salle’s Kean Baclaan.
The unfortunate incident proved costly as Baclaan suffered a season-ending injury, an MCL tear.
Gavina already made a public apology in an interview with a radio show where he stressed his regret of doing such unprofessional manner during the highly emotional moment.
He also sent his regards to Baclaan and wished him speedy and full recovery.
