UAAP: No suspension for Mark Nonoy after unsportsmanlike foul reclassification

MANILA, Philippines — La Salle guard Mark Nonoy avoided an automatic suspension despite his second unsportsmanlike in of the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament.

The UAAP announced on Tuesday that Nonoy’s second infraction was officially classified as a Level 3 unsportsmanlike foul according to Fiba rules. The Level 3 (stopping a fastbreak) and Level 4 (clear path) categories of unsportsmanlike fouls, according to the UAAP, are excluded from accumulation.

“In adherence to the guidelines set by the UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office, aimed at excluding all Category 3 (stopping a fastbreak) and Category 4 (clear path) Unsportsmanlike Fouls from accumulation, ‘s second infraction has undergone a downgrade/reclassification,” the UAAP said in a statement.

Nonoy was called for the unsportsmanlike foul after he had an unnecessary contact on Ian Espinosa, who initiated a layup at the 7:36 mark of the second quarter in La Salle’s second-round victory over Ateneo on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

READ: Mark Nonoy credits UAAP renaissance to trusted longtime coach in Iloilo

“This classification, defined as ‘unnecessary contact caused by the defensive player to stop the progress of the offensive team in transition, applicable until the offensive player begins the act of shooting’ was deemed appropriate for the foul involving Nonoy,” the league said. “The play in focus unfolded as offensive player Ian Espinosa initiated his layup, only to encounter Nonoy’s unnecessary contact, abruptly halting the transition/fast break.”

“The league remains committed to upholding fair play and maintaining the integrity of the game, ensuring that all decisions are made per established guidelines.”

Nonoy incurred his first infraction on November 5 against University of the Philippines.

He is cleared to play when La Salle, which holds a twice-to-beat advantage, battles National University in the Final Four on Saturday at the Big Dome at 6 p.m.

The Green Archers swept the second round, entering the Final Four with an eight-game winning streak to clinch the second seed with an 11-3 record.

Rookie of the Year frontrunner Precious Momowei was suspended last November 14 and was disqualified from receiving any individual awards after incurring two unsportsmanlike fouls this season.