PBA lifts ban on ex-import Renaldo Balkman

MANILA, Philippines – Former NBA player and now Alab Pilipinas import Renaldo Balkman can now have his second chance in the Philippine Basketball Association.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial lifted Tuesday the league’s lifetime ban on Balkman, opening the door for his possible PBA comeback as early as the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup that fires off on April 22.

San Miguel Beer, Balkman’s team during his flagrant misconduct in the league five years ago, still owns the right of first refusal on the player. The Beermen, however, have tapped in Troy Gillenwater as their temporary import while waiting for the availability of their champion import Charles Rhodes.

Marcial said he made the verdict based on Balkman’s appeal and on the decision of former commissioner Chito Salud.

“I trust that he has learned his lesson and has become a better person and a more disciplined athlete. Good luck to him,” said Salud, the PBA commissioner when Balkman threw an outrage during a PBA game in 2013.

“Arwind is also okay with the pardon,” said Marcial.

In his outrage then, Balkman assaulted Santos while his teammate tried to stop him from venting his frustration at a referee’s decision. During the break in play, Balkman bumped a referee, pushed one teammate and then shoved Santos. After Santos pushed back, Balkman grabbed his teammate by the neck before he was pulled away by more team members.

For that antics, Balkman was slapped a lifetime ban on top of a hefty fine of P250,000.

Balkman’s track record as a player included a head-butting incident during a FIBA Americas game between Puerto Rico and Venezuela and an altercation with the Alaska Milk Aces during a preseason game also in the PBA.

But he seems to have mellowed down as he’s showing with Alab Pilipinas in the Asean Basketball League.

Balkman made his appeal through a letter and in a personal meeting with the PBA commissioner.

“Balkman was apologetic and gave his assurance for his behavior on and off the court. He has matured since the incident now that he’s 33,” said Marcial.

Balkman and his Alab teammates have clinched an ABL playoff berth. They’re now chasing a spot in the Top Two for an outright semifinal entry.

They’re currently at third spot behind Chong Son and Hong Kong.

He’ll be available for any PBA team at the end of the 2017-18 ABL season.