By Adrian Stewart Co

Following his expulsion during their recent 88-85 win over the Manila Stars in the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), Iloilo United Royals head coach Eric Gonzales has been slapped with a two-game suspension and P20,000 fine. The coach was ejected after entering the game midway in the third period and making contact with Stars player Aris Dionisio in protest of officials not making a call on an earlier play.
“Although there was no intention to hurt, on the part of Gonzales, such practice should not be tolerated,” MPBL Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes explained in a statement. “Coaches should respect the game above all, observe [the] true spirit of sponsorship, and lead by example.”
“I think the sanction is severe enough,” he added.
Team consultant Nash Racela will stand in during Gonzales’ suspension./ASC, WDJ