PBA: Ivan Johnson apologizes to Commissioner Narvasa after lifetime ban

Ivan Johnson has apologized to PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa after getting a lifetime ban and P250,000 fine from the league for "disrespecting authority" on Saturday afternoon.

In a statement posted on his Twitter account on Sunday, the Tropang TNT import said his ban was "unfortunate and devastating" because he felt at home playing in the country.

Johnson was ejected in the second quarter of the TNT-Meralco game after picking up his second technical foul over cursing Narvasa. An hour later before the game even ended, the league announced the ban.

"I do want to sincerely and most humbly apologize to Commissioner Narvasa for my actions in last night's game. I ask that you forgive me. Thank you," said the American reinforcement.

Johnson thanked the league for giving him the chance to return for another tour of duty for the Tropa, which he led to a Commissioner's Cup title last season.

"It meant the world to me to be able to bring my family with me so we could experience all of this together," he said.

Johnson also apologized to the fans and thanked them for their "tremendous love and dedication."

"I am truly sorry for the role I played in the events of last night's game and the devastation and disappointment I have caused all of you," he said. "Again, thanks for the support, it is greatly noticed and appreciated."

Johnson was coming off a one-game suspension after punching Blackwater's Frank Golla in a tuneup game before the conference.

Last season, he figured in several altercations with PBA players and coaches including Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, Alaska coach Alex Compton, and Star Hotshots forward Marc Pingris.

pic.twitter.com/QcbuuTjzRR

— Ivan Johnson (@Ivan_Johnson44) February 14, 2016

 —ALG, GMA News