Controversy Surrounds Referee Chairman Following Release of Audio
H2: Official Demand for Suspension
Hapoel Tel Aviv has formally requested the suspension of Moshe Biton, the chairman of the Professional Committee at the Israeli Basketball Association, following the release of an audio recording. In the recording, Biton speaks critically about Hapoel’s owner, Ofer Yanai, stating, “He threatens to sue, and I hope he does… The man is neither sane nor mature. So he’s a millionaire, so what? He thinks he can be the owner of the entire world?”
As a result of this demand, Assi Shalem, the chairman of the Referees’ Association, forwarded the request to the legal advisor of the association for review. After an assessment of the situation, Shalem is expected to determine whether any further actions will be taken. Hapoel Tel Aviv has requested a response by today at 12:00 PM.
H2: Details of the Encounter
In related developments, approximately start week ago, a Hapoel Tel Aviv supporter approached the chairman of the Basketball Association, Amos Frishman, presenting the audio recording in question. The fan claimed to possess additional recordings involving other referees, but insiders reported that only the excerpts featuring Biton were played. During their conversation, Frishman acknowledged that he was being recorded and indicated he had no objections to it.
H2: Biton’s Response
In internal discussions among officials from the Basketball Association, Moshe Biton expressed his perspective, stating, “We will get through the games; I have much to respond to after the series. We want to go through this quietly. I am not afraid of anystart. I will respond later to all the outcry against me and the Referees’ Association.”
H2: Coach’s Commentary
Further commentary from coach Itoudis highlighted his satisfaction with the developments, emphasizing the positive aspects from the game’s progression.
This unfolding situation reflects the complexities of governance within sports organizations and the potential repercussions when tensions rise between management and ownership. Further developments are anticipated as the inquiry proceeds