The UAAP addressed comments made by coaches on officiating in Season 88, noting suspensions and bans have already been implemented. However, the league warned further statements disrespecting referees will result in sanctions.
The UAAP issued a stern warning towards UE head coach Chris Gavina, while directing him to explain his fiery, expletive-filled rant against referees after the Red Warriors' overtime loss to the De La Salle Green Archers in Season 88 men's basketball on Wednesday.
Three more coaches were also given stern warnings.
The league also warned against further disrespect to referees.
"While Coach Gavina has already issued a public apology, he was directed to provide an explanation for his post-game remarks and conduct," the UAAP said in a statement released Friday.
"The use of profane language and making unfounded allegations against game officials is unacceptable in the UAAP. Any future statements that demean or disrespect referees will result in sanctions."
Gavina, a first-year head coach in the UAAP, went on a rant after UE player Wello Lingolingo was sent off with 4:21 ticks left in regulation when he was flagged for an unsportsmanlike foul on La Salle’s Kean Baclaan. This resulted in the Red Warriors' overtime loss on Wednesday, extending their losing streak to six.
[READ: La Salle’s Kean Baclaan vows to 'come back stronger' after UAAP season-ending injury]
With a battle for the loose ball, Lingolingo dove for the ball and inadvertently injured Baclaan, which turned out to be an MCL injury — one that will likely sideline him for the rest of the season.
“Everyone’s going after it (the ball). Call a regular foul,” Gavina said.
“You call an unspo on a play like that? Wello had 24 points at that moment. 24. They’re supposed to be the best of the best? Get the f*** out of here. Hell no. (They) took away our effort.”
Gavina’s tirade was expletive filled and lambasted the officiating of the game.
In a statement released on Friday night, the UAAP said sanctions were already implemented regarding questionable game calls in the league.
The league also said teams have access to detailed game reports, including referee call accuracy grades.
"Accountability remains a cornerstone of our operations: suspensions and permanent bans have already been implemented to uphold the credibility and integrity of our officiating," the statement read. These were not specified.
However, multiple infractions for unsportsmanlike behavor and violations of protocols committed by coaches were listed.
"University of the East assistant coach RJ Argamino was cited for unsportsmanlike behavior and violating the cooling-off period. University of the Philippines head coach Paul Ramos and University of Santo Tomas head coach Haydee Ong were both cited for unsportsmanlike behavior. Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University head coach Tab Baldwin was also cited for violating the cooling-off period. Stern warnings have been given regarding comments on referees to Coach Baldwin, National University head coaches Leo Pujante and Jeff Napa, and University of the East head coach Chris Gavina."
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Topex Robinson gives honest take on Chris Gavina rant after physical DLSU-UE game]
"The UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office respects the voices of our coaches and values their right to express their thoughts freely. Constructive criticism of referees and officiating is welcomed, as it is essential for the growth and development of our game officials," the statement read.
"Both the Commissioner’s Office and the coaches share a common goal: to elevate the quality of basketball in the UAAP and ensure that every contest is played with fairness, passion, and integrity."
The league reiterated that before the season started, they engaged with coaches to get their insights.
They also noted the Commissioner's office aim to build a pool of officials aligned with FIBA standards. The UAAP said its game officials include seven of nine active FIBA international referees in the country. The rest are guided by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the country’s only FIBA-certified instructor.
"We recognize that both coaches and officials are adjusting to this season’s new dynamics, as nearly all referees differ from last year. The intensity and closeness of the games naturally amplify emotions, yet it is the responsibility of everyone in the UAAP to uphold sportsmanship, respect, and civility," the UAAP added. "Our collective conduct sets the example for our athletes and the student community, reminding all of the values that define varsity sports."
While Gavina got a warning and was made to explain his statements, Lingolingo has since been feted a three-game suspension which will begin on Sunday, October 19, as UE faces the FEU Tamaraws to end the first round.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: UE’s Wello Lingolingo slapped with 3-game suspension on foul vs DLSU’s Kean Baclaan]
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.