JASON Perkins of La Salle claimed he heard some ‘unnecessary’ words from University of Santo Tomas coach Bong Dela Cruz during their UAAP men's basketball game on Sunday.
Perkins declined to go into specifics as to what was said to him that led to verbal exchanges between Dela Cruz that eventually dragged Jeron Teng and even La Salle assistant coach Allan Caidic into the fray.
“There was just some unnecessary words. That’s pretty much it,” said the burly Perkins, moments after the Green Archers' 83-70 victory over the Tigers. “I don’t want to go into detail.
“I just thought it was unnecessary. I won’t say something bad back. I won’t stoop to that level,” Perkins added.
Teng also confirmed something was said by Dela Cruz late in the game but also declined to say much.
“Kung gusto niyo, si Jason nalang ang tanungin niyo,” Teng said when asked by the media about the incident. “Medyo personal ‘yung sinabi ni coach eh. Siya na lang.”
Incidentally, Teng’s brother Jeric played for UST during his college days and even fought Jeron and Co. in the UAAP championship series last season won by La Salle.
Dela Cruz couldn’t be reached for comment after the game although he was seen having a word with Caidic during the traditional post-match handshake at midcourt.
Perkins refused to dwell on the incident, saying it only happened in the "heat of the game."
“I think it’s just the heat of the game. That happens in basketball, the physical play, getting into each others heads. It was okay. That’s just the heat of the game,” said Perkins.
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