Gensan Warriors player Michole Sorela was given a lifetime ban from the MPBL and a fine of P200,000 after he severely injured Jonas Tibayan of the Mindoro Tamaraws during a game in Batangas. This happened in the third quarter when Sorela boxed out and suddenly punched Tibayan in the jaw.
He was immediately ejected from the game after the incident while Tibayan lay on the court, bleeding and unable to move due to a broken jaw and mild concussion.
The league commissioner complained about the violence and said it was unacceptable in basketball. This is not the first time Sorela has been involved in such an incident as in 2015, he was also suspended for one game in the NCAA for assault.
The Mindoro Tamaraws won against the Gensan Warriors by a score of 76-72 in that game. In Tibayan's Facebook post before the game, he asked for guidance and support from those seeking justice and healing for his wounds.
