VisMin Cup throws book at ‘jokers’

MANILA, Philippines — The Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup expelled the Siquijor Mystics team while dealing multiple players and the entire coaching staff of the Lapu-Lapu Heroes with suspension and fines in the wake of their farcical match Wednesday in Alcantara, Cebu.

The league came under fire after videos surfaced on social media showing botched free throw attempts and blown lay-ups in the Lapu-Lapu-Siquijor game that was stopped at halftime. The Heroes were leading 27-13.

All the players and coaches of Siquijor will no longer be allowed participation in the league for the rest of the tourney after the thorough probe conducted in coordination with the Games and Amusements Board.

League COO Rocky Chan said it’s a “stern warning” to any player or team who would attempt to do the same “disgraceful acts.”

“Itinayo namin ang liga na ito to provide livelihood to players, coaches, utilities and other people behind. Sana wag nating sirain because the sacrifice that we’ve made is not easy,” he said.

“Wag natin babuyin ang basketball na pinakamamahal ng Pinoy. This is a clear statement of the Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup,” he added.

The VisMin Super Cup has issued a memorandum to all the teams about a fine of P1 million and expulsion from the league for future possible violators.

Lapu-Lapu players Jojo Tangkay, Reed Juntilla, Dawn Ochea, Monbert Arong and Ferdinand Lusdoc drew suspension for the rest of the first round on top of a P15,000 fine each.

Rendell Senining, who attempted a fancy left and right free throw in the strange game, got the brunt of the penalties for Lapu-Lapu with P15,000 fine and suspension for the rest of the tournament.

Heroes head coach Francis Auquico likewise was whipped with a suspension for the first round on top of a P30,000 penalty. The members of his staff each drew P20,000 fine.