Phoenix suspends alas

MANILA, Philippines — It’s back to “home base” for Phoenix coach Louie Alas for now.

Just two days after taking part in the Fuel Masters’ training restart, Alas was suspended by team management for “violating” health and safety protocols in the sessions at Upper Deck.

“We suspended him for 15 days starting Aug. 27,” Phoenix team manager Paolo Bugia told The STAR.

Alas was sanctioned for having his fingers taped by the team’s physical therapist, a breach of the team’s social distancing protocols, and for entering the training venue ahead of his scheduled slot. He explained that he arrived earlier than he should have and went on to write instructions on the board even before the players arrived.

Alas was also cited for entering the court while disinfection procedures were going on.

The 56-year-old coach maintained his actions were “unintentional” and that he had valid reasons. But he has accepted his penalty, ready to rejoin Phoenix in due time.

“I’ll be back after the second (scheduled swab) testing after two weeks,” said Alas, who in the meantime is remotely giving instructions to his designated group of players through his mobile phone.

League commissioner Willie Marcial expressed satisfaction with Phoenix’ internal action.

“It’s good they’re policing their own ranks,” he said. “I’m okay with their action, and no further action from the PBA is needed.”

Marcial said generally, the no-contact practices in batches of five have been running smoothly.

“Everything’s okay, including TNT KaTropa who are training in a bubble in Calamba, Laguna,” he said.

The PBA is poised to request the IATF to allow scrimmages later this month with hopes of eventually resuming the Philippine Cup in an NBA-style bubble by October.

“The PBA will write the IATF. Hopefully we continue to get a favorable response,” added Marcial.