STA. ROSA, Laguna — Meralco Bolts handed Kelly Nabong an indefinite suspension following an altercation with Assistant Coach Jimmy Alapag in Game 1 of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals against Star at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan on Sunday night.
Head Coach Norman Black confirmed the suspension right after Game 2 of the series at the Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on Tuesday night.
“We wanted Kelly Nabong to be part of what’s going on here, but he’s not very happy with his situation right now with the team,” Black explained.
Nabong and Alapag were seen having a feisty confrontation that was only controlled by cooler heads late into the semis opener.
Despite the Bolts’ come-from-behind win, Nabong was seen punching the door of the Bolts’ designated dugout, inflicting damage to it.
Black then revealed a factor leading to Nabong getting mad at Alapag.
“Obviously, he’s not too happy with his playing time,” the multi-titled mentor said. “That’s sad because it’s all about winning right now. We’re trying to win a championship.”
Meralco moved closer to achieving that coveted title after mauling Star in Game 2 for a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five semifinals.
Meanwhile, Black added that he and the rest of the team management will look into Nabong’s case on Wednesday.
“We only have a day to really try to sort everything out. Hopefully by tomorrow, we might be able to make some other decisions on his situation,” Black said.