Tiukinhoy suspends 'Slam Dunk' snub

CEBU, Philippines - Elwin Durano of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers defended his slam dunk crown unopposed, while Arvin Kim Gomez of the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters became the new three-point shootout king in yesterday's sidelights of 9th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) All-Star Game at the Cebu Coliseum.

The no-show of the would be slam dunk participants tapped by the CESAFI to challenge Durano has provoked commissioner Felix O. Tiukinhoy, Jr. to announce to the public the suspension of Eulogio Lasala, Jr. of UV, Abuilaz Suliman of USJ-R, Chester Curso of CIT, and Jefford Aldave of DBTC for the remaining games of the season.

Tiukinhoy was livid over Lasala who was present at the venue but did not come over to the court when his name was called by the announcer. All of them were slapped with a five-game ban, therefore, Lasala and Suliman cannot play anymore in the semifinal round.

Since CIT and DBTC are already eliminated, Curso and Aldave's suspension will be carried over for the next season.

Lasala reasoned out that his hip was aching but Tiukinhoy further became furious when he saw Lasala warming up and doing some slam dunk exhibitions. Tiukinhoy later barred Lasala from warming up.

Coach Elmer "Boy" Cabahug ang his assistant Al Solis claimed that they prodded Lasala to come but he refused. When they heard the announcement of the suspension, they did not complain and even said it was good in order for Lasala to be disciplined.

The suspension served as a penalty for the erring players for giving disgrace and embarrassment to the organizers as well as frustration to the paying public who came to watch the All-Star game including of course the slam dunk and three-point shootout.

Meanwhile, Gomez and Durano went home P5,000 richer.

Gomez defeated USC's Michael Cantonao in the three-point shootout, while defending champion Moncrief Rogado begged off as he is playing for the All-Star Game and was excused. -  THE FREEMAN