Francis Lopez sounds off on alleged spitting of Topex Robinson

FRANCIS LOPEZ, one of the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons’ best scorers, sounded off on what happened during their tough finals rematch versus the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers. 

Emotions ran high, resulting in an alleged unsportsmanlike incident at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, October 6, as both teams competed for first spot in the standings, before the first round ended. 

Photo Courtesy: Joaqui Flores

However, the reigning champions Green Archers held off the Fighting Maroons’ late surge, winning 68-56 courtesy of Kevin Quiambao’s double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds.

Despite the fact that a few days have passed, social media discussions continue, as more netizens are curious about what happened during the multiple courtroom clashes. 

Lopez sounds off

Lopez, UP’s lanky high-flying forward, had a lot to say on humility and physicality in basketball a few days after they played DLSU. He did not, however, mention anyone (team, player, or coach) in his Instagram story.

“One big game had a lot of things happen, but it was a disaster. If you ever make it to the highest level of your life, make sure to humble yourself and play it right,” said Lopez on his story.

Screenshot from: @francis.lopezzzz | Instagram

“Everyone should always look for those who are consistently there when you’re at your lowest, as those are the ones who want to see you succeed.”

“Our team accepts defeat and all of our coaches NEVER told us to hurt anybody, but basketball is a physical game, contact sport, if you can’t play through it then go cry to your mommy and daddy,” he added.

Meanwhile, Lopez’s final statement on the post served as an indirect threat to the opposing team, as he looks forward to facing them again in the second round and avenging their loss.

“Fix the character. We will see you soon. No promises on anything but we will for sure see you soon. That one action to one of our player made it personal,” added Lopez.

What happened?

In the third quarter, when the Fighting Maroons rallied from a 20-point deficit to tie the game, both coaching staff unexpectedly met at the center and exchanged heated words.

“Whatever na mainit na nangyari, hindi naman tungkol sa basketball eh. Yun ang importante dun eh,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde, when his thoughts were asked about what transpired during the game.

“Kung basketball lang, being competitive, syempre both sides will give their best. Pero syempre, pangit kasi may mga ibang bagay a ginagawa sa loob na hindi naman – walang kaugnayan sa laro eh.”

It was later rumored that the heated altercation occurred because La Salle head coach Topex Robinson allegedly spat on UP forward Reyland Torres’ right shoulder as he moved past the bench. 

Meanwhile, DLSU insiders told Spin.ph that Torres instigated the confrontation by passing by in front of their bench and instigating them with foul words while covering his lips with his jersey. 

This prompted Robinson to yell at the player, which he confirmed right when the games ended, but denied allegations that he spat on Torres’ shoulder.

Robinson will face the UAAP board on Thursday. The former PBA and NCAA coach graciously declined to speak on the topic, but is pleased to have the opportunity to clear his name.