Beermen face Batang Pier, Hotshots tackle Aces

The PBA Commissioner’s Office gave Calvin Abueva a harsh lesson yesterday when he was handed an indefinite suspension for his controversial actions in two previous matches of the Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters.

Abueva was also fined a total of P70,000 after making a lewd gesture at Blackwater rookie Ray Parks Jr’s girlfriend Maika Rivera last Friday followed by a clothesline hit on TNT KaTropa import Terrence Jones two days later.

Commissioner Willie Marcial laid down the verdict after summoning Abueva at the league office in Libis, adding that the man they call “The Beast” will only be reinstated if he changes his ways.

“(The PBA) can no longer allow Abueva to continue with his offensive and obnoxious on-court behavior against the fans and his fellow players, which the fiery player is known for,” the league said in a statement.

Abueva was initially fined P20,000 by Phoenix for his actions against Rivera whom he called a “bitch”.

Meanwhile, Phoenix coach Louie Alas was banned two games and fined P40,000 for flagrant misconduct when he shoved TNT’s David Semerad during a scuffle that marred Sunday’s game against TNT.

Jones was also fined a total of P70,000 for hitting Abueva in the groin area and shoving referee Joel Baldago when he tried to retaliate to the latter’s clothesline hit.

Meantime, June Mar Fajardo-led San Miguel Beer and Paul Lee-powered Magnolia launch their campaign almost a month after their Philippine Cup title showdown when they battle separate teams at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Beermen begin the quest for a second straight crown against the NorthPort Batang Pier at 7 p.m. while the Hotshots take on the Alaska Aces in the opener at 4:30 p.m.