Ateneo coach Louie Alas slapped with 2-game ban
MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo’s woes continue amid a crucial stretch in the Blue Eagles’ UAAP men’s basketball Final Four chase.
The UAAP suspended Ateneo head coach Louie Alas for two games “following the accumulation of two infractions” and his “unsportsmanlike conduct,” the league said in a statement on Monday, November 9.
Alas will serve his suspension on Wednesday, November 11, when the Blue Eagles battle the Adamson Falcons, and on Sunday, November 15, when they take on the UST Growling Tigers.
On Tuesday, November 10, Alas apologized in a letter addressed to the Ateneo community.
“Regardless of the circumstances, my actions were inappropriate. I should have exercised greater restraint and better judgment” Alas said. “I take full responsibility for my conduct and accept the consequences.”
The penalty stemmed from two incidents involving Alas during a tense matchup last Saturday, November 7, where the Maroons outlasted the Blue Eagles, 82-74.
Right at the buzzer, Alas confronted the UP side before cooler heads stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating.
“With less than a second remaining, Alas entered the court, pointed at UP’s Jacob Bayla, and cursed at him following the latter’s dunk,” the league said in a statement. “He again pointed at and cursed at the UP player during the post-game handshake.”
The league said the Ateneo mentor also “engaged in an exchange with UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon despite attempts by UP coaches to pacify him.”
“The Commissioner’s Office determined that his actions escalated tensions between the two teams and risked a potential altercation.”
Prior to the end-game commotion, Alas entered the court at the 3:55 mark of the first quarter, complaining about a non-call.
Alas “remained on the playing court despite being warned by the nearest referee to return to the sideline,” the league said.
He was assessed a technical foul for unsportsmanlike behavior during the game.
The UAAP cited another Alas infraction during Ateneo’s loss to UST, 80-68, on October 17.
“At the 5:15 mark of the third quarter, he attempted to distract UST’s Amiel Acido as the latter attempted a corner three-pointer. After Acido converted the shot, Alas touched the back of the UST player,” the statement said.
“Although the incident was missed by the game officials, the Commissioner’s Office reviewed the play and imposed the appropriate disciplinary sanction under the UAAP House Rules and applicable FIBA regulations.”
Alas’ suspension comes at a crucial time as the Blue Eagles, running fifth with a 5-6 record, try to chase a Final Four spot with just three games left in the second round.
Last October, Alas also served an automatic one-game suspension after accumulating three infractions.
“As a coach, I recognize that leadership is demonstrated not only in how we prepare and compete, but also in how we respond to difficult and emotional situations. This experience has made me reflect seriously on my conduct and the example I set for my players,” said Alas.
“I have always coached with passion and dedication, but I recognize that these must be guided by humility, respect, and self-control. I sincerely regret that my actions fell short of these values.” – Rappler.com
