Ousted UE seeks probe on Perasol

MANILA, Philippines - University of the East yesterday asked the UAAP to look into the alleged presence of suspended Ateneo coach Bo Perasol at the Mall of Asia Arena last Sunday, which could be in violation of his ban and may lead to sanctions such as forfeiture.

Perasol was serving his one-game suspension due to his previous altercation with a La Salle alumnus when his Eagles played and won over the Warriors last Sunday, 77-72, in the UAAP men’s basketball tournament.  

“Given that Coach Perasol has been issued a one-game suspension by the UAAP board...his presence at the MOA Arena during yesterday’s game time is a violation of the UAAP 76 Rules and Regulations,” UE board member Carmelita Mateo wrote in their letter to UAAP 76 President Fr. Max Rendon.

Mateo referred to “Sanctions (page 26, item no. XII)” which states that “the presence of a suspended coach should not be allowed in the bench or venue during the period of suspension. A violation of the condition of suspension shall result in the forfeiture of the game where the suspended team official of member was found present.”

“In view of this, the University of the East respectfully requests that the UAAP 76 board conduct an investigation of this matter and that the appropriate sanction be imposed in accordance with the UAAP 76 Rules and Regulations,” Mateo wrote.

Eagles team manager Paolo Trillo declined to comment while Ateneo athletic director Ricky Palou said they “haven’t heard about this (UE’s letter to UAAP).

The issue is expected to be discussed in the next board meeting originally set yesterday but was moved to Thursday.

The Eagles (7-5) had ousted the Warriors (5-7) with that victory but if it ever comes to the point of the board eventually forfeiting Ateneo’s win, UE will see its semis bid revived.