CHICAGO - Despite an assault caught on video, the Meralco Bolts decided to retain Ismael Romero as the team's import for the upcoming PBA Season 50 Commissioner's Cup.
While it is my understanding that the decision was collegial, active consultant Nenad Vucinic had the final say.
I wanted to interview Vucinic and ask him if he would have looked at Romero differently if his victim was Serbian and not Fil-Am.
I was told by an intermediary that the Serb from New Zealand does not talk to the media as a matter of "policy."
I guess policy is now a new term for skirting accountability.
Beginning with team governor Bill Pamintuan, Meralco is teeming with good people and I am saddened by this move.
UNWANTED MAN.
In sticking with Romero, who viciously kicked Nick Demusis in the head at a Dubai tournament last month, the Bolts are creating an impression of enabling, cuddling and harboring a violent offender.
I do, however, understand Vucinic's staggering indifference.
Romero is a valuable asset, 6-foot-9 and 220 pounds with great handles for his size.An elite rebounder, he is perfect for Nenad's casting call for hard-nosed, high-energy players.
But while the Cuban-Puerto Rican ain't no Bad Bunny, his actions in Dubai, which reflected a disturbing enthusiasm for roughness, makes him a potential powder keg.
READ: Marcial reacts to Meralco plan to tap Romero as PBA import
In addressing the Romero issue on my Homer Says Show podcast last Thursday, Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao said the "brutal" attack had "no justification."
Even more appalling, is the stifling arrogance of Romero who manifested "no apologies, no remorse."
DO WE REALLY WANT THIS GUY IN THE PBA?
His defenders argued that the incident happened in a different country, different league. That's nonsense because the sins in Dubai don't get washed by simply traveling to the Philippines.
There's also an argument that Romero's Chuck Norris impersonation was a retaliation to a provocation.
Bull crap.
June Mar Fajardo is the most abused player in the league, bullied, albowed, and pushed around like unwanted furniture.
But have you ever seen The Kraken resort to taekwondo?
Sports are supposed to be a glue for community, conversation and civic pride. I'm afraid Romero only brings potential conflict.
What if he gets unhinged and tries to attack Calvin Abueva?
Oh, Lord.
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