The exodus from Mapúa University continued on Saturday as new MPBL team Cebu secured the promising duo of John Jabonete and Jeco Bancale.
The Classic’s staff Paulo Hubalde confirmed the development to Tiebreaker Times.
Both players were instrumental in the Cardinals’ run to the top during NCAA Season 100.
Jabonete, a 23-year-old bruising 6-foot-4 forward, averaged 4.44 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, while Bancale, a speedy 22-year-old guard, posted 4.55 points, 1.85 rebounds, and 1.33 assists per contest.
Interestingly, both Jabonete and Bancale are graduates of Cebu Institute of Technology, making this move a homecoming of sorts.
With this, both Jaobote and Bancale have forgone their remaining eligibility in the NCAA.
Their departure follows the exits of Chris Hubilla and Lawrence Mangubat, who left Intramuros for Shaw Boulevard to join Jose Rizal University.
Despite these losses, Mapúa remains stacked for its title defense, with Season 99 MVP Clint Escamis leading the charge. The team will also be bolstered by transferees Cyril Gonzales, Drex Delos Reyes, Joe Gulapa, Ivan Lazarte, and Cyrus Nitura, all of whom are now eligible to play.
