Late drama mars Star-Meralco semis opener as Nabong, Alapag engage in verbal tussle

The door of Meralco's dugout after the game.
By Ivan Saldajeno

BIÑAN--Meralco may have beaten Star in Game 1 of the PBA Governors' Cup semifinals.


But it just barely overshadowed what transpired at the bench of the Bolts late into the said match at the Alonte Sports Arena on Sunday night.

Assistant Coach Jimmy Alapag and center Kelly Nabong were seen confronting each other while their was in the middle of their fourth quarter comeback, and cooler heads had to separate them.

Out of frustration, Nabong ripped off his jersey afterward.

Nabong's ire spilled through the post-game as some witnesses claimed he punched the door of Meralco's designated dugout.

Head Coach Norman Black, however, said that the incident was a bit of surprise for him.

"I don't really know the whole story," said Black.

The incoming Alab Pilipinas coach declined for a comment, while Nabong immediately left the venue.

Black vowed that he will help bury the hatchet in time for Game 2 on Tuesday night at the nearby Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Sta. Rosa City.

"I'll sort it out tomorrow, and I'll take care of it immediately," Black said.

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