Al Ahli Tripoli import Israel Romero Fernandez has found himself at the center of controversy following a shocking on-court incident during the Dubai International Basketball Invitational.
The Cuban-Puerto Rican forward was caught on video kicking Zamboanga Valientes guard Nick Demusis twice after a collision during their January 28 matchup. The footage quickly circulated on social media, drawing widespread criticism and raising serious questions about sportsmanship and accountability in international competition.
Romero Fernandez’s actions prompted immediate reaction from the Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB). Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivero confirmed that the agency’s sports division has launched an investigation into the incident.
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“All our professional athletes are bound by the code of ethics, one of the provisions of which is for them to respect their fellow players. And respect could mean not to inflict physical injuries on your fellow player,” Rivero said during a media interaction.
“If this is proven that there is an infraction, then we can discipline the players and disciplining the players could mean suspension or if the offense is grave enough – revocation of license,” he added.
Rivero explained that the GAB maintains jurisdiction over licensed players even if incidents occur overseas.
“The principle of territoriality will not apply here because, the person is under our jurisdiction, so they have a license with us. So, regardless of the place of the commission of the offense, we have a say on that – of course, that’s subject to us knowing the facts,” Rivera continued.
🚨 Escándalo en el básquet internacional
📌 Ismael Romero le dio una patada en la cabeza a un rival en pleno partido, fue suspendido por el resto del torneo y se evalúan sanciones legales.#basketball pic.twitter.com/UeSAIF8MNE
— Pasión Naranja (@pasionaranjaOK) February 3, 2026
However, the GAB intends to allow the league to act first. Rivero said the board will wait for the PBA’s recommendation and evaluation before imposing any sanctions.
“If this is already brought to their attention, then the expectation is that they will impose disciplinary sanction on players. They have done that in the past, they suspend players, they ban players. They should have the first crack.
“League pa rin dapat ang unang mag-decide. Number one, that player has a contract with the team, and the team has a contract with the league and it has provisions regarding the discipline of the players.
“But of course, it will not prevent us from looking into the case. At present, we are not informed of the facts. Para kasi kaming appellate court, mauuna muna yung trial court for the trial court to gather all the facts para pagdating sa amin, kumpleto. Right now, we are doing our own diligence and investigation,” Rivera concluded.
The Zamboanga Valientes have since filed a police complaint in Dubai, signaling their intent to pursue formal action over the incident. As of this writing, Romero Fernandez has yet to issue a public statement or apology, further intensifying scrutiny from fans, coaches, and analysts.
The controversy comes at a crucial time, with the East Asia Super League (EASL) set for its next slate of games. Attention now turns to whether Romero Fernandez will face disciplinary action from the leagues involved—and whether the Meralco Bolts will field him in their upcoming EASL assignment.
Beyond the immediate fallout, the episode has reignited discussions about player conduct, league governance, and the responsibilities carried by imports competing in professional basketball. As international tournaments continue to grow in prominence for Filipino teams and players, the incident underscores the importance of upholding strict codes of conduct and safeguarding player welfare.
For Demusis, the priority is recovery after what could have been a far more serious situation. For the broader basketball community, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between competitive intensity and unacceptable behavior on the court.
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