Marcial to PBA players: Display proper conduct
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial yesterday called on all players to display proper conduct in the aftermath of a stabbing incident over the weekend that saw Alaska rookie Jeron Teng, Rain or Shine center Norbert Torres and former La Salle guard Thomas Torres sustain stab wounds.
Teng and the two Torresses have been kept under observation by doctors at the St. Lukes Medical Center after figuring in a brawl with two suspects early-Sunday outside of a bar in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, an incident that rocked the local basketball community.
The three players are expected to file charges against the two suspects, identified as Edmar Manalo and Willard Basili.
While ruling out the possibility of having the league implement strict measures on off-court activities – particularly late-night hangouts – Marcial said he will personally continue to rmind players to be extra careful.
“Kinakausap ko naman sila at nireremind na mag-ingat parati,” Marcial said.
The melee came days after the PBA dealt with the FIBA suspension of NLEX freshman Kiefer Ravena, who tested positive for banned substances which from an energy drink during the World Cup Qualifiers.
It is unknown when will Teng return to action, though sources hinted he may needed an extended time to recover after being stabbed on the back.
Norbert Torres, on the other hand, is expected to miss a week after being cut in the left arm. Rain or Shine will play Blackwater on Friday at the Big Dome.
Thomas Torres, who was set to play for Mandaluyong in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, will need six weeks to recover after injuring his triceps.