A Sacramento teenager is in recovery after suffering a head injury last weekend during an AAU basketball game in Alameda. The incident occurred on Sunday during a matchup between Tumakbo United and Payton’s Place at the College of Alameda.
Thirteen-year-old Seth Guingab from Elk Grove, playing for Tumakbo United, sustained a concussion after a violent altercation on the court. The event unfolded when Guingab fell to the floor while vying for the ball during an inbound pass play. As he lay on the ground, a player from the opposing team, Payton’s Place, allegedly stomped on Guingab’s head while another player wrestled with him for possession of the ball.
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and spectators who witnessed the game, many of whom have expressed concern over the safety protocols in youth sports. Videos circulating on social media show the chaotic scene, highlighting the aggressive nature of the encounter.
Alameda police have launched an investigation into the incident, although no charges have been filed at this time. Authorities are reviewing footage and gathering statements from witnesses to determine the appropriate course of action.
Seth Guingab’s parents are speaking out, calling for stricter enforcement of sportsmanship rules and better supervision at youth sporting events. “No child should ever have to endure this kind of violence during a game,” said Seth’s mother, Maria Guingab. “We are grateful for the quick response from the medical team and the support we’ve received from the community.”
The coach of Tumakbo United, John Ramirez, expressed his concern for Guingab’s well-being and emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment for young athletes. “Our focus is on Seth’s recovery right now,” said Ramirez. “We also need to ensure that incidents like this are addressed properly to prevent them from happening again.”
This incident has prompted a broader discussion about the culture of competitiveness in youth sports and the measures needed to protect young athletes from harm. Advocates are calling for enhanced training for coaches and referees, as well as stricter penalties for violent conduct on the court.
As Seth Guingab recovers from his concussion, the basketball community is left grappling with the implications of this unsettling event. The outcome of the police investigation and any subsequent actions will likely shape future policies aimed at safeguarding youth sports participants.
