YENG Guiao got the distinction of being the first to lose a coaches’ challenge, which is being implemented for the first time in the PBA on Tour.
Guiao’s unsuccessful challenge came during Friday’s match against NLEX where he called for a review on an offensive foul called against Jewel Ponferada with 1:32 left in the second quarter in the third playdate of the exhibition series.
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Guiao admitted he challenged the call knowing that it will most likely stand, and only used it as part of the experimentation process.
“I wanted to be unique. Panay successful. Para maiba naman. Para makita nila kung ano ‘yung successful at kung ano ‘yung unsuccessful,” said Guiao in jest.
“It’s part of the experimentation," he continued, turning serious. "Mafi-feel mo naman talaga kung ‘yung challenge mo may chance o wala. Kanina, nakita ko na na baka malabo pero sayang ‘yung opportunity. Nakaka-pahinga din mga players mo. It takes a minute to review. Sinubukan lang namin. Unsuccessful nga lang.”
Incidentally, the first challenge was used by NLEX coach Frankie Lim, which was successful during the first game of the preseason series against Blackwater.
Under the rules which will be implemented in the coming season if approved, each team is given one challenge per half. A successful challenge allows a call to be reversed and an unsuccessful one will cost the team a timeout.
Guiao said he is happy that the challenge system is finally being implemented in the PBA, adding it will be beneficial to the coaches and referees alike.
“Puwedeng sabihin ng coach na mali tawag mo, itsa-challenge ko ‘yan. Puwede rin sabihin ng referee na challenge mo, eh di kami ang tama. Now, medyo may accountability on both sides which is good,” said Guiao.
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