Puerto Rico’s Superior Women’s Basketball League (BSNF) rejected the acts of violence that followed the November 10 playoff game between the Criollas and the Explosivas in Moca, an incident now under police investigation in which a man was reported to have suffered an open head wound. In a written statement, BSNF president Luis Gabriel Miranda and BSNF tournament director Fernando Quiñónez said violence is unacceptable and contrary to the respect, healthy competition and family atmosphere the league promotes, and that players, coaching staff, workers and fans must enjoy basketball in a safe environment.
Both said the Moca coliseum is one of the league’s most visited and its board has shown itself responsible and committed to the tournament, and that the acts of those involved do not represent that organization or its fans. Miranda, also general manager of the Capitanes de Arecibo in the BSN, said the league will evaluate all available evidence to identify responsibilities and apply the full weight of its rules with firmness and due process, and will cooperate with Puerto Rico authorities so any criminal conduct is addressed and those responsible answer before justice.
Operations director Yanira Liceaga, a former national team and Pollitas de Isabela player, said passion must always be expressed with respect. The disturbance came after the second game of the quarterfinal series, which Caguas leads 2-0. The directors said it is the league’s first incident of this kind in more than a decade.