De La Salle University head coach Topex Robinson has come under renewed scrutiny after a circulating video showed him attempting to trip University of Santo Tomas rookie Charles Esteban during their UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball first-round encounter on September 16.
The incident occurred in the third quarter, shortly after Esteban knocked down a three-pointer.
A clip shared on Reddit showed Robinson near the sideline as the UST rookie moved past him, with the La Salle coach appearing to extend his leg toward the player.
https://www.reddit.com/r/UAAP/s/L8MVHV4z08
The sequence has since drawn reactions from basketball fans online, with some questioning the conduct of a coach who is expected to set an example for players and spectators.
UST went on to defeat La Salle, 80-75, in the contest.
The renewed attention also brought back memories of Robinson’s previous controversy involving University of the Philippines player Reyland Torres, who was at the center of a spitting incident during an earlier UAAP season.
The latest clip prompted comparisons between the two incidents, with some online commenters arguing that questionable conduct by coaches and players should be scrutinized regardless of which school is involved.
Others pointed to what they perceived as inconsistent reactions to similar incidents involving different teams, reigniting discussions about sportsmanship and accountability in collegiate basketball.
The incident has renewed calls among fans for coaches to maintain professionalism and demonstrate the discipline expected in one of the country’s premier collegiate sports leagues. (By the Staff)
