BAN THE BRAWLERS
Sanction call for those involved in Filipino fracas
LENGTHY bans, fines and potential legal action loom for Aussie and Filipino players involved in a wild brawl that has shocked the sporting world.
Basketball’s world governing body FIBA has launched a probe into a frightening furore that spiralled out of control during an Aussie Boomers World Cup qualifier against the Philippines.
Greats of the game and Australian basketball officials have called for the toughest possible action in the wake of the shameful stoush late on Monday night.
Basketball Australia chief executive Anthony Moore branded the controversy a “pretty dark day’’ for the sport, revealing Aussie players had been left “shaken up’’ and fearing for their safety.
“Physically our players are fine, they’re bruised and battered, we don’t have breaks or anything like that,’’ he said. “But really, it’s the mental health of our players we’re absolutely concerned about.’’
Coward punches, kicks and chairs were thrown and an Aussie player pinned down and attacked by about 12 people in shameful scenes which saw 13 players ejected from the match.
Boomer Chris Goulding was seriously assaulted in the brawl which saw Filipino players and officials clear the bench to take part.
Frightening footage that emerged yesterday shows Filipino officials holding an Aussie player’s legs while others punch, kick and pelt a chair at him. More shocking video appears to show Philippines coach Chot Reyes urging his team to get physical in the lead-up to the brawl.
“Hit somebody, put someone on their a***’’ he said.
NBL boss Larry Kestleman urged FIBA to throw the book at opposition players who assaulted Boomers stars but said Aussies involved also deserved to be penalised.
“This disgraceful behaviour needs to be dealt with by FIBA in the strongest possible manner and we will await the outcome of their investigation,’’ Kestleman said.
``We commend the restraint shown by our players and officials in the circumstances.’’
Australian players needed consular assistance to leave the Manila arena and changed hotels in fears for their safety before boarding planes to fly home last night.
Aussie basketball legend Andrew Gaze labelled the controversy “ugly and horrific’’.
“That level of violence when you’ve got fans and other people getting involved is frightening stuff,’’ he said. “Sanctions are needed to send the strongest possible message because this was an unwelcome blight on our game.’’
FIBA threatened disciplinary action against both teams but findings are not expected until late next week once a tribunal has been convened.
Astonishingly, president of the Phillipines basketball association Al Panlilio said his players had shown “we are a force to reckon with’’.
“I’m very proud of them. They refused to be pushed around and bullied,’’ he said.