College of Saint Benilde is not only gearing up for the upcoming 99th season of the NCAA but is also preparing for the seasons beyond.
In anticipation of the impending graduation of their seniors, the Blazers have reloaded by securing the commitments of several recruits who will undergo residency this year.
“I am extremely grateful to our boosters and managers who have made the dedicated decision to fully invest in our team and program,” expressed Blazers head coach Charles Tiu.
Leading Saint Benilde’s recruitment class are the former San Beda University trio of Tony Ynot, Justine Sanchez, and Gab Cometa; Red Cubs product Nathan Victoria; former Emilio Aguinaldo College big man Allen Liwag; University of the Philippines’ Anton Eusebio; and former Centro Escolar University floor general Jhomel Ancheta.
Additionally, committing to CSB are Immaculada Concepcion College standouts Roger Ondoa and Ian Torres; San Joaquin Delta College’s Matthew Oli; Gavilan College’s Tahjae Ordonio (son of ex-PBA player Jon Ordonio); Irele Galas from Iloilo; and Jeric Canete from Cagayan de Oro.
With players like Will Gozum, Miggy Corteza, Prince Carlos, Robi Nayve, Felipe Marasigan, and Chris Flores expected to graduate after the season, the reason behind Benilde’s substantial recruitment for NCAA Season 100 becomes evident.
“It’s a challenge we’ve never encountered before, where there is now an abundance of players vying for the same position. It’s a favorable challenge, better than lacking options. They will need to compete for their spots, as we also have a surplus of players,” said Tiu.
However, the immediate focus of the team remains on ending the decades-long championship drought of the Blazers.
“Our primary focus remains on the upcoming season that is about to commence in a month or so. We still have a substantial amount of work to accomplish, and our consistency remains an issue,” said Tiu.
