Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — In the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioners’ Cup, defending champion Talk ’N Text will open their title defense without import Ivan Johnson who will be serving a one-game suspension.
Johnson was suspended and fined P50,000 for shoving JP Erram and punching Frank Golla in a tune-up game against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
In his last season with the Tropang Texters, the former Atlanta Hawk was fined P150,000 for a collision with Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao.
A statement from the league called the collision “clearly unprovoked and avoidable,” while coach Guaio had a few choice words for the import right after the incident.
“Well, he did it on purpose,” said Guiao. “I’m not surprised because that has been his reputation. It’s probably a lack of breeding and respect. (That’s) one reason he’s out of the NBA (National Basketball Association) and playing overseas.”
Related: Talk ‘N Text opens title-retention bid with All-Filipino lineup
Misunderstood passion
Despite all the criticism leveled at Johnson, teammate Jai Reyes has come out to defend the embattled import.
“Ivan is for one, he is a legit NBA talent. I think he should still be, he can still be playing in the NBA,” Reyes told CNN Philippines anchor Mico Halili on Sports Desk on Tuesday (February 9). “His attitude being like that, sometimes he is misunderstood.”
Reyes attributed Johnson’s misconception due to his passion for the game. He added that Johnson is striving to keep that in check in this conference.
“According to him (Johnson), it’s just really his passion for the game that sometimes he can’t control his emotions,” he said. “But that’s the first priority for him this season, is to control his emotions.”
In his first stint with the Tropang Texters, Johnson averaged 26.8 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. With Johnson in tow, Talk ‘N Text won Commissioners’ Cup crown.
Johnson will be able to make his first appearance this season when Talk ’N Text takes on the Meralco Bolts on Saturday (February 13).
Related: Jai Reyes: TNT to benefit from longer break
