MANILA – Even if it will endanger their Grand Slam bid, the San Miguel Beermen has slapped indefinite suspensions on veterans Arwind Santos, Kelly Nabong and Ilonggo Ronald Tubid.
The three were suspended by the SMC management for their involvement in a tussle with import Dezmine Wells during their team practice on Nov. 17.
“While the conflict has been resolved, and the incident occurred away from the public eye, the San Miguel organization does not tolerate unsportsmanlike behavior,” the statement read.
It added: “Basketball is a physical game where emotions can run high, but we believe PBA players have to be held to a higher standard of professionalism and sportsmanship at all times.”
“It is for this reason that we’ve come to this decision, even if it impacts our bid for a second franchise grand slam. Our commitment now, moving forward, is that we will work doubly hard and play our very best, for our fans and for the organization.”
According to reports, Santos and Wells got into an exchange of words after the former send down the latter with a hard pick.
Tubid then entered the frame and threw a punch at Wells before Nabong came to the defense of the import.
The Beermen has a twice-to-win disadvantage over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings in the 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals round./PN
