WHAT AWAITS ERRING PETRON IMPORT?
As everyone awaits word from San Miguel Corp. top management on the fate of Petron Blaze import Renaldo Balkman, whose outburst in the Boosters’ losing cause against Alaska last Friday got the Philippine sporting scene abuzz, his coach is wiling to make a fresh start.
“We’ll report what happened to the management, and it’s their call,” said Petron coach Olsen Racela. “If I were to make the decision, I would give him another chance.”
This developed even as Balkman has issued apology to everyone, accepting his actions were wrong and unacceptable.
“It was brought about by my frustration and passion which I realize now are still no excuse for what I did. It brings me great pain to know I let so many people down and I vow not to let this unfortunate occurrence happen again,” said Balkman in a statement.
“Immediately after the game, I apologized to the Petron management, coaching staff, my teammates, Arwind Santos and his family. I am truly grateful and admire their concern for my welfare. Arwind is a true warrior and I admire his passion for the game,” added Balkman who went wild at endgame of their Friday’s losing match, confronting the referees and later his teammates, including Santos whom he grabbed by the neck.
“Ayaw natatalo (He doesn’t want to lose),” said Racela of his import who had a history of another outburst with the Puerto Rican national team in the FIBA Tournament of the Americas.
But PBA commissioner Chito Salud expressed much concern on Balkman’s behavior, hinting at possible severe sanctions on the erring Petron Blaze import.
“From what I’ve seen, he would need to have a persuasive explanation to justify his behavior before our fans and the sporting public,” said Salud. “As his host, our country deserves a convincing clarification from Mr. Balkman.” (SB)
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