John Amores’ License Revoked by GAB: Lessons from a Troubled Journey

John Amores License revoked by GAB, Photo by PBA

Christmas won’t be merry for controversial basketball player John Amores as the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) officially revoked his professional license. This decision marks a significant turning point in the career of a once-promising athlete.

Amores’ license was revoked following an incident in Laguna, where he allegedly fired shots during a dispute in a pickup basketball game over a ₱4,000 bet. Though no one was harmed, the act led to an attempted homicide lawsuit. Along with his brother, Amores is now out on bail.

The GAB’s investigation concluded that Amores was guilty of “conduct unbecoming of a professional basketball player” and handed down the severe penalty of revocation. This means Amores is permanently banned from participating in any professional basketball game sanctioned by GAB.

“The respondent’s license is revoked effective immediately,” GAB stated in their six-page decision signed by chairman Francisco Rivera and commissioners Manuel Plaza III and Angel Bautista.

Even before this ruling, Amores had been suspended by the PBA for one conference without pay for “conduct detrimental to the league”. He was also barred from sitting on the bench or even watching NorthPort Batang Pier’s games. Additionally, the league ordered him to undergo counseling to address his anger and violent tendencies.

A Story of Missed Redemption

John Amores’ career had the makings of a powerful redemption story. After gaining notoriety for a punching spree during an NCAA game in 2022 that led to an indefinite ban and his expulsion from Jose Rizal University, he was given a second chance in the PBA. Many hoped he could turn his troubled past into a tale of perseverance and growth.

Unfortunately, his return to professional basketball was short-lived. The Laguna incident, coupled with his history of violent behavior, ultimately derailed his career.

Learning the Hard Way

Amores’ case is a harsh reminder that being a professional athlete goes beyond excelling in the sport. Athletes are public figures who must uphold professionalism, discipline, and accountability on and off the court. With the advent of social media, every action is under scrutiny, making it even more critical to set a positive example for fans—especially the youth.

As athletes, the responsibility extends far beyond the sport itself. Training the body and mind for peak performance should go hand in hand with maintaining composure and integrity, regardless of the circumstances.

What’s Next for Amores?

With his license revoked, Amores will need to explore other avenues for his livelihood. While playing basketball abroad is theoretically possible, his history of misconduct and the GAB’s influence may make it difficult for him to secure opportunities, even outside the Philippines. Background checks and character evaluations are standard practices in professional sports worldwide, and his actions may continue to haunt him.

As someone who has met John Amores personally, I can only hope he finds the right path moving forward, even if it’s no longer in basketball. His story should serve as a lesson for athletes everywhere: talent can open doors, but character and professionalism are what keep them open.

Good luck, John Amores.