MANILA, Philippines – The PBA on Friday, October 11, announced it had suspended NorthPort guard John Amores for one conference after his involvement in a shooting incident in Laguna last month.
Amores, who is charged with attempted homicide, will not receive salary for all his games in the Commissioner’s Cup as part of his punishment for his violations under the uniform players’ contract.
“Quarreling with other players in a pick-up game, engaging in a challenge to a fight, chasing after his protagonist with a handgun, and then shooting his gun are not consistent with the standard of behavior and image that the PBA wishes to project to its fans, particularly to its young followers,” the league said in a statement.
“The potential for young people to see Amores’ conduct as acceptable is disturbing, and this the PBA will not permit.”
Prohibited from attending games, Amores is still allowed to join the Batang Pier in practices, for which he will still get a portion of his salary.
Amores must also subject himself to counseling to “address his anger and violent tendencies” and secure clearance from his counselor before he returns to action.
“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,” the league said.
“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.”
Amores and his brother, who is also facing an attempted homicide case, are out on bail. – Rappler.com