Damian Lillard says sorry on Twitter, says 'unfortunate event beyond our control'

UNABLE to speak to media following the aborted friendly game between Gilas Pilipinas and a band of NBA players, Portland Trailblazers guard Damian Lillard expressed his sentiment and apologies over the micro-blogging site Twitter late Tuesday evening.

“sorry it was beyond our control,” Lillard wrote on his official Twitter account @Dame_Lillard.

One of the NBA’s fast-rising stars, Lillard was expected by thousands of Filipino fans to showcase his speed, athleticism, and outside shooting against Gilas Pilipinas in the two-day exhibition game being used as part of the national team’s buildup for the Fiba-World Cup in Spain and the Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea.

Unfortunately, the NBA prevented the players from suiting up at the last minute, making it clear that the event dubbed `Last HOME Stand’ was not sanctioned by the league.

The unfortunate development angered thousands of paying fans and forced PLDT big boss Manny V. Pangilinan to issue a public apology and declare the cancellation of the other scheduled benefit game on Wednesday.

Meantime, Detroit Pistons guard Brandon Jennings chose to highlight the positive experiences he had during his brief stay in the country.

“Amazing trip in the Philippines, the love we got was unreal. Hopefully I get another chance to do this again. The Fans #Amazing,” said Jennings in his Twitter account @BrandonJennings.

The entire NBA stars led by coach John Lucas left the country early Wednesday morning.

More news about the cancelled Gilas-NBA game:

Count on Pinoy netizens to find humor in face of outrage over Gilas-NBA mess

NBA says Manila organizers did not take 'required steps' to comform with league's CBA rules

Amid furor, support and admiration for MVP after apology for mess

According to an insider, the group of top basketball patron Manny V. Pangilinan will end up footing a US$4.6 million bill, or around P200M.

Gilas Pilipinas tune-up game cancelled as NBA players barred from playing in 'unsanctioned event'

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan himself apologizes for the foul-up that caused the cancellation

Some officials now face the ax after the embarrassing cancellation of the event, according to a source

Even the Gilas Pilipinas players were surprised with the sudden change from game to mere workout with NBA players

The NBA players actually met the morning of Tuesday after receiving threats of possible suspensions from the US league

Commissioner Tamano warns of sanctions as GAB looks into Gilas-NBA 'farce'

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