PBA slaps one-game suspension, 20K fine on Calvin Abueva for flashing dirty finger

Just two months after being hit with a significant fine, Magnolia’s volatile forward Calvin Abueva found himself in hot water once again, receiving a hefty P20,000 penalty and a one-game suspension for an inappropriate gesture during the Hotshots’ recent 77-87 loss to Brgy. Ginebra in the PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup Manila Clasico showdown on Easter Sunday.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial disclosed the disciplinary action on Wednesday, revealing the consequences during halftime of the Terrafirma-Meralco match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Marcial also met with Abueva that same day at the league’s headquarters in Quezon City to listen to the veteran player’s perspective on the matter.

“Calvin Abueva sinuspende ko ng one game. One game suspension at P20,000 fine,” said Marcial.

“Kapag inulit niya pa yun, sabi ko dadagdagan ko yung suspension niya, dadagdagan ko yung fine niya. Sabi niya hindi niya na uulitin pa iyon. Pero tingnan natin,” he added.

The 6-foot-2 Abueva was caught on camera flashing the dirty finger during the closely contested game between the two fierce PBA rivals at the iconic Big Dome.

“Sa susunod sabihin mo yun sa referee, puntahan mo yung technical (committee), puntahan mo ako, at kakausapin natin yung fan na puwede nating palabasin. Huwag nang ikaw mismo ang gagawa nun kasi ang pangit tingnan,” advised Marcial.

This latest incident adds to Abueva’s rap sheet, coming right after he was fined a hefty P100,000 for a disrespectful gesture towards San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent during Game 2 of the Finals between the Beermen and the Hotshots at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Abueva has had a long history of letting his emotions get the best of him, as evidenced by a heated exchange with SMB forward Moala Tautuaa in the halls of the Pasay City sports venue.

The suspension means that Abueva will be sidelined for Magnolia’s upcoming game against NLEX at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium this Saturday.