No Abueva for Phoenix in bubble debut vs Meralco
Games Today (Angeles University Foundation) 4 p.m. — Phoenix vs Meralco 6:45 p.m. — Blackwater vs NorthPort
Phoenix Super LPG won’t be having Calvin Abueva today when it takes on Meralco in the PBA Philippine Cup inside the campus of Angeles University Foundation.
Games and Amusements Board chairman Baham Mitra said yesterday that Abueva is scheduled to attend the third and final seminar on the “Code of Conduct of a Professional Athlete” on Wednesday before his professional license can be reinstated.
Mitra bared that it was Phoenix management which requested for Abueva to attend the seminar slated 7 p.m.
“Phoenix team manager Paolo Bugia sent an email requesting for the last session to be held on Oct. 14, 2020, Wednesday, 7 p.m.,” said Mitra.
The development will prolong the much-awaited comeback of Abueva, who is still serving an indefinite suspension handed down PBA commissioner Willie Marcial in June last year.
It has been a difficult journey for Abueva after initially being left out of the 25-man contingent that will enter the bubble due to his suspension.
But Abueva was eventually allowed to join the Clark bubble, and included in the 15-man roster provided he completes all necessary GAB requirements.
If Abueva completes the final day of the seminar, the eyes will now be on Marcial to decide if he has seen enough change and remorse to reinstate “The Beast.”
Topex Robinson will make his debut as Fuel Masters mentor as he attempts to produce a winning start, regardless if Abueva suits up or not.
Looking to spoil things is Meralco, seeking to finally have a good showing after going 11-33 in the last four editions of the All-Filipino tournament.
The Bolts are hoping that things can change, especially with Raymond Almazan playing for the first time in a non-import conference.
NorthPort squares off with Blackwater at 6:45 p.m. in the featured game of the second day of hostilities inside the PBA bubble.