UAAP: UE coach Chris Gavina suspended for four games due to 'unprofessional conduct toward game officials'

University of the East head coach Chris Gavina was suspended by the UAAP Board of Managing Directors after he "directed profanity-laced remarks and displayed unprofessional conduct toward the game officials" in a post-game interview last Wednesday.

In a decision released Saturday, the UAAP said Gavina's actions were contrary to the values of the league.

"As a collegial body representing eight universities, the UAAP upholds the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and respect. Coach Gavina’s actions were contrary to these principles," the league said in a statement.

"As a teacher and leader, a coach sets a high standard for the student-athletes and the university community."

The league said Gavina will begin serving his suspension on Sunday, when UE takes on Far Eastern University.

"The UAAP reiterates its commitment to fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and sportsmanship across all participating universities," the league added.

The decision came a day after the Basketball Commissioner’s Office, headed by Jai Reyes, reaffirmed its support for both coaches and officials.

"We recognize that both coaches and officials are adjusting to this season’s new dynamics, as nearly all referees differ from last year. The intensity and closeness of the games naturally amplify emotions, yet it is the responsibility of everyone in the UAAP to uphold sportsmanship, respect, and civility. Our collective conduct sets the example for our athletes and the student community, reminding all of the values that define varsity sports," the Commissioner's Office said Friday.

Call for accountability

On Wednesday, Gavina called for greater accountability after his player, Wello Lingolingo, was assessed an unsportsmanlike foul for landing on Kean Baclaan’s body in the fourth quarter. Gavina was later ejected from the game, having already received a technical foul in the third quarter.

In a profanity-laden speech, Gavina said Lingolingo should not have been called for an unsportsmanlike foul.

"The beauty of the competition was taken away because you call an unspo (unsportsmanlike foul) on one of our best players on a loose ball? I watched the video. I watched the video. They told me that Wello jumped f—in’ purposely on Baclaan on the loose ball? Get the f— out of here. There's no way. You watch that video again.

"There's no way, on a loose ball where there hasn’t been a whistle, everyone’s going for the ball. Everyone's going after it. Call a regular foul. You call an ‘unspo’ on a play like that?"

Gavina added that this was not the first time officiating has come under fire during UAAP games.

"Yes, we squandered a 21-point lead. But hold these refs accountable. I’m tired of it. It’s not just me. I’m not the only one voicing this out. I’m not the first coach who’s said this all week long."

Lingolingo apologized for what happened, while Baclaan will miss the rest of the season due to the incident.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News