Players suspended over on-court fight
SEASONAL'S temperamental guard Ng Chu-yip has been warned about his future conduct after being handed a two-match suspension by the Hong Kong Basketball Association (HKBA) disciplinary committee for fighting.
The disciplinary committee decided to get tough with Ng, who was sent off during last Tuesday's league play-offs for scuffling with Fukien's American player Jose Slaughter. Seasonal won the match 90-78.
Fighting almost resumed in the changing room after the game when the players confronted each other but were restrained by teammates.
Slaughter did not escape the wrath of the disciplinary committee who handed him a one-match ban.
The disciplinary committee noted that it was not the first time Ng had been involved in an altercation with rival players this season. He clashed with Suntex's Dexter Boney in a Senior Shield match in March.
Ng, who is known for his fiery temper, received a cut above his left eye when he was hit by Boney. Police were called in and the Suntex player was taken away for questioning.
Boney received a four-match ban for the incident but Suntex managed to convince the HKBA to change the penalty to a $20,000 fine instead. Ironically, Ng had got off scot free.
Yesterday's disciplinary committee decisions have ruled out Ng and Slaughter from playing in their clubs' remaining Division A1 play-off matches at the MacPherson Stadium tonight.
Neither of their teams is involved in the title chase but Seasonal are still hoping that Ng's suspension can either be reduced or be replaced by a fine as in Boney's case.
Seasonal are scheduled to face Wing Lun while Fukien have a date with championship contenders Suntex, the only team still with a chance of overhauling leaders Regal in the title race.
Suntex are currently in second position with 12 points but would shoot to the top of the table with a victory over Fukien. Regal, who are leading with 14 points, have one game outstanding against Seapower at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium on Tuesday.
