SBP accepts FIBA sanctions for Gilas-Australia brawl

The SBP accepts the brunt of the sanctions placed by FIBA, although it also hinted at appealing some penalties. Nikki Collantes (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MAKATI--SBP president Al Panlilio said that the organization is accepting the sanctions handed by FIBA to it on Thursday following the July 2 brawl between Gilas Pilipinas and Australia at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue.

[Related Stories: FIBA hands suspensions for Gilas-Australia brawl | Gilas-Qatar game to be played behind closed doors]

"SBP accepts the disciplinary panel's decision and extends its appreciation to the panel for its worth," Panlilio said as he read the SBP's official statement in a press conference held at the Ramon Cojuangco Building of PLDT an hour after FIBA publicized the demerits.

Panlilio then said, "The SBP would take steps to develop contingencies for the Philippines' participation in future FIBA-sanctioned tournaments.

He, however, added, "The SBP is in the process of carefully reviewing it. The executive committee of the SBP will convene soon to determine if we could avail of the appeals procedure under the decision."

Still, he assured, "We'll work to raise our hosting standards to a higher level as befits the traditional hospitality accorded to guests by our people.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno