NorthPort player John Amores has been suspended by the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) from participating in the upcoming 49th season of the Commissioner's Cup.
This decision follows Amores' involvement in a shooting incident in Lumban, Laguna.
In an announcement made by the league's legal counsel, Atty. Ogie Narvasa, and PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, it was stated that the 24-year-old player will not receive any payment or salary during his suspension.
"In coordination with the management of NorthPort, the Commissioner has decided that John Amores will be suspended for all his games in the next conference of the PBA's 49th season, without pay, for conduct detrimental to the league," Narvasa read from the decision.
Narvasa further elaborated that Amores must undergo counseling approved by the league to address his anger and violent tendencies before he can return to playing in the PBA.
"Furthermore, in order for Amores to be allowed to play again in the PBA, he must, without delay, submit to counseling to address his anger and violent tendencies. Clearance to play must be obtained from his counselors. Choice of the counseling program of Amores should be with the approval of the PBA, and the program must continue until cleared and terminated by the counselors," he added.
Despite the suspension, Amores will still be allowed to attend team practices.
"Isolating him from his normal environment will not be helpful and healthy for his rehabilitation. He must learn to deal with his issues under as normal circumstances as possible. It is under normal settings, including the challenges and stress they create, where he can fully exercise tolerance and restraint. In any case, he will be subjected to stiffer penalties and restrictions should his violent tendencies erupt during team activities," Narvasa read from the decision.
Meanwhile, Marcial mentioned that he has coordinated with the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) regarding the decision and clarified that their ruling was based on the PBA's rules violated by Amores and not directly related to his criminal case.
It is worth recalling that Amores and his brother were charged with attempted homicide due to the incident at a basketball game in Laguna. They were later released on bail.
