Tab Baldwin says sorry for PBA criticism

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas program director Tab Baldwin has apologized to the PBA in the wake of his controversial commentary about the pro league’s format, officiating and coaching.

Baldwin, listed as an assistant coach with TNT KaTropa, explained his side in an online meeting with PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, deputy commissioner Eric Castro and legal counsel Melvin Mendoza Monday.

An apologetic Baldwin told Marcial that he intended no harm and that his commentary was “taken out of context.”

"Okay naman (The meeting went well)," Marcial told the STAR. "Nag-apologize siya Sinasabi niya out of context daw yung statements (He apologized and he told  us his statements were taken out of context)."

“I feel bad that has happened and that’s not my intention,” Baldwin was quoted in a report on the PBA website.

The Kiwi-American mentor told Marcial he gave his commentary in reply to the question “what surprised me when I first came to the Philippines?" His comments, he maintained, were taken out of context.

PBA execs didn’t like what Baldwin said about the PBA’s single-import conferences and alleged “rules latitude” on imports as well as “tactical immaturity” of the coaches during the recent “Coaches’ Unfiltered” podcast.

Marcial had earlier warned of a hefty fine or even suspension for what he felt were statements that are “detrimental to the league.”

Baldwin immediately reached out to Marcial and sought a dialogue, which the commissioner granted.

The PBA Commissioner's Office is set to deliberate on Baldwin's case and hand a decision Tuesday.