A Basketball Game Turns into a Brawl

A basketball game between Philippines and Australia, valid for the qualifying phase of the 2019 World Cup, turned into a brawl on Monday in Manila. The altercation involved two NBA players and became a trend on YouTube due to its shocking images.

Players chased on the court and off the court, exchange of punches and kicks, a flying chair, overwhelmed referees: the Manila Arena became a boxing ring during the third quarter of the game, as can be seen on YouTube.

Two NBA players were involved in this impressive exchange: Thon Maker, an Australian center who plays for the Milwaukee Bucks, and the Filipino Andray Blatche (former player for the Brooklyn Nets).

The referees were finally able to restore order after the expulsion of 13 players, nine Filipinos and four Australians. The game did not resume and Australia was declared the winner (89-53).

A elbow from Filipino player Roger Pogoy on Australian player Chris Goulding sparked the fight. Shortly afterwards, the members of the Filipino team posed for a group selfie.

Reactions in the basketball world were numerous. The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) announced disciplinary proceedings against both teams, who are trying to qualify for the 2019 World Cup, and stated that a decision would be made in the coming days.