Phoenix Super LPG big man Larry Muyang has been slapped with an indefinite suspension by the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) after violating the terms of his active player contract, the league confirmed Sunday.
The 6-foot-6 forward-center is currently playing for the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), despite still being under contract with Phoenix until May 2025.
“Banned ang status niya (ngayon) sa PBA,” said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial in a statement posted on the league’s website.
According to Marcial, Muyang has expressed remorse over the incident during a meeting held on Sunday, but the PBA is standing firm on the decision to suspend him indefinitely pending resolution.
“Humingi siya ng pasensiya. Pero sabi ko kahit ganun, may kontrata siya sa Phoenix so dapat i-honor niya ‘yun,” Marcial added.
Phoenix management confirmed the player’s contract is still active and has not been released, suggesting possible legal action could be taken for breach of contract.
Marcial said Phoenix has yet to finalize whether it will pursue legal recourse, but noted that Muyang’s path back to the PBA would not be automatic, even if both parties reach a resolution.
“Kailangan umapela pa rin siya sa Board of Governors,” said Marcial, emphasizing that Muyang must appeal his case before the PBA Board to be considered for reinstatement.
The former Colegio de San Juan de Letran standout has already played three games for Pampanga in MPBL Season 7, including a dominant performance in their 127-95 win over Manila Batang Quiapo, where he tallied 35 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and a steal.
The indefinite ban sends a strong message from the league regarding contract compliance and could set a precedent for how similar infractions are handled moving forward.
“This case should also serve as notice to other players who may find themselves in the same situation,” Marcial said.
Muyang rose to prominence with the Letran Knights in the NCAA and was later drafted by Phoenix in the PBA, where he carved out a role as a reliable frontcourt presence before this recent controversy.
