THE University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) on Tuesday, Nov. 14, officially accepted the apology issued by Adamson coach Nash Racela following his remarks made last Sunday that put the league in bad light.
After Adamson’s game against Ateneo, Racela commented on the Blue Eagles’ chances of making it to the Final Four, saying: “I know they like Ateneo to make it to the Final Four. I don’t know how much percentage. Malaki, majority ‘di ba? The UAAP probably wants them. A lot of people probably want them to go in.”
That statement drew the ire of several UAAP officials.
And through the Commissioner’s Office, the league issued a letter to Racela, which contained a reference to UAAP rules violated and a postgame report of the fourth quarter of the subject game.
The report revealed that there was an acceptable margin of error, and missed calls were divided equally between both teams.
While the penalty of suspension could be imposed outright, Racela was given an opportunity to escape the said penalty by making a formal apology for his statements.
In response to the incident and avoid sanctions, Racela issued a formal apology, expressing regret for the mention of the UAAP in the interview.
“If it will do us any good, I apologize for the mere mention of the UAAP in the interview. I guarantee that there was no malice intended, and there was no intention to cast doubt on the integrity of the league.”
In consideration of Racela’s apology and clarification, the UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office has decided not to suspend him for Adamson University’s upcoming game against National University on Wednesday, November 15. However, Coach Racela has been issued a stern reprimand as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the league’s integrity and sportsmanship.
The UAAP emphasizes its commitment to sportsmanship and the spirit of healthy competition.
Racela’s complain was not the first time the league was put in bad light. In a previous game between Ateneo and this year’s host UE, the Eagles were given 34 free throws but made only 25.
In sharp contrast, UE had only four gift shots and was successful only once.
The three referees were eventually suspended.
