Refs not spared in the aftermath of Gilas-Australia brawl

The referees who called the game between Gilas Pilipinas and the Australian national team at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers held in Bulacan earlier this month will not escape sanctions.

In an official release, FIBA announced that referees Ahmed Al Bulushi of Oman, Hatim Alharbi of Saudia Arabia, and Paul Skayem of Lebanon will be removed from the FIBA Elite Program, and will not be allowed to officiate FIBA-sanctioned events for one year.

“Following a thorough evaluation by a group of experts of the officiating during the game, the FIBA Secretary General has decided that the referees of the game shall be removed with immediate effect from the FIBA Elite Program,” said the organization.

“[They] shall not be nominated to any international competitions organized or recognized by FIBA (including at Zone and Sub-zone level) for a period of one year.”

“FIBA wishes to emphasize that it condemns any form of violence, both on and off the court. Respect, sportsmanship and professionalism are expected from players, coaches, officials and all other stakeholders at every game.”

A total of 13 players and two coaches were slapped with suspensions following the brawl. The Philippines were also fined CHF 250,000 (about P13,386,776.05), while Australia was given a CHF 100,000 fine (about P5,353,121.59).