Topex allowed to coach for Lyceum in Game 2

MANILA, Philippines — Lyceum of the Philippines University coach Topex Robinson will not be suspended in Game Two of their NCAA title duel with San Beda over his criticism of the league decision suspending his player CJ Perez for failing to formally inform the league beforehand of  his PBA draft application.

“Topex Robinson can coach,” said NCAA Management Committee chair Frank Gusi of Season 94 host Perpetual Help after yesterday’s emergency meeting.

Robinson, however, could still face possible suspension next year as the NCAA is expected to tackle his case after the finals.

“The Mancom decided to give the LPU coach enough time to finish the remaining finals games,” said Gusi. “Then after which, we are putting continuance to the proceedings in the spirit of sportsmanship and with the best interest of the league.”

Robinson hit the league over Perez’s Game One suspension during interviews right after the Pirates fell to the Lions, 60-73, in the series opener Tuesday at the MOA Arena in Pasay City.

The league also deferred punishing College of St. Benilde assistant coach Charles Tiu for his comment on social media calling the league decision on Perez a joke.

Robinson and the Pirates are eyeing nothing less than a victory in Game Two set on Monday also at the MOA Arena as Perez is expected to make a return.

Minus Perez, who averaged a league-best 18.7 points and 3.3 steals on top of 8.4 rebounds and four assists, LPU just didn’t have enough firepower to mount a late fightback and fell prey to a complete, full-force San Beda side.