Alas and Luanzon apologise after UP-Ateneo late-game confrontation

Ateneo head coach Louie Alas and University of the Philippines assistant coach Christian Luanzon apologised following a confrontation sparked by Jacob Bayla’s late dunk in UP’s victory over Ateneo de Manila University. The win put the Fighting Maroons into the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball Final Four.

UP led 80-74 before Bayla added the dunk in the closing moments. The basket prompted an exchange involving both benches, with players and coaches intervening as the teams moved towards centre court.

Alas acknowledged losing his temper and said he believed scoring when victory was already assured breached an unwritten convention. He said some UP coaches had apologised, but criticised Luanzon’s response during the confrontation.

UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde said the coaching staff had encouraged players to take late scoring chances because the standings were close and teams could finish tied. He said Bayla may have been following that guidance and denied any intention to show disrespect.

Luanzon said he respected Alas and his family and had been trying to calm him down. He added that the arena noise meant he was unsure exactly what Alas had said to Bayla.

Bayla said Ateneo were still pressing UP, so he remained focused on playing until time expired. He said he did not know what had been said to him and had known Alas for a long time.