Far Eastern University has secured the commitment of one of the brightest prospects in the country.
Renzo Competente will be heading to FEU after graduating from Citrus Valley High School next year.
Renzo’s father Lloyd confirmed the development to Tiebreaker Times.
“Actually what really made Renzo and the family choose FEU is that they made us feel na Renzo is special. They didn’t just dwell on how their program will help Renzo fulfill his dreams, but rather it is how they explained to us na FEU and Renzo together can reach new heights,” Lloyd shared to Tiebreaker Times.
“What really stood out from the pitch was that Coach Olsen [Racela] and Mr. Mark Molina said not only do they want Renzo but they definitely need him. Hinimay-himay nila lahat ng pros and cons, lahat ng points bakit mag-eexcel si Renzo sa kanila given his skills and spot sa FEU’s roster.”
Renzo, 17, is a 6-foot-2 guard who dazzled for Gilas Youth during the 2022 FIBA Under-16 Asian Championships.
In six games played for the Nationals, Renzo averaged 11.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.
His best game came against Australia in the quarterfinals, dropping 18 points against the Crocodiles on four treys.
And definitely, Renzo can’t wait to join the Tamaraws next year.
“Renzo is very excited about joining the Tamaraws.
“Hindi siya very showy about it like posting sa mga social media, but you can see the eagerness in him through his workouts and training. Mas aggressive siya mag-train ngayon knowing that he is preparing for something. We never really pushed him to choose FEU, but we know he decided with his heart kasi one day after hearing all the pitches from other schools sabi niya sa mommy niya na, ‘Mie. FEU ako.’ Knowing how shy Renzo is and for him to utter those words, we knew he has decided,” said Lloyd.
This early, Renzo is already working on his game so that he can be ready once he enters the UAAP.
For his part, Lloyd will help his son get ready for the challenge of delivering instant impact to the Tamaraws.
“I know Renzo is in a very good situation right now. Deciding which school to go to this early is the best case scenario kasi we have a year to prepare. Ang maganda dito we can work on his flaws and polish more of his skills,” said Lloyd, who was with coach Darius Bautista in the process of selecting a school. “Renzo has always been a winner. Kahit nung bata pa sya madalas champion ang team kung nasan sya. He wants to bring that winning attitude to FEU. Renzo is a skilled player, a very good shooter, and has a very good inside game — he loves to share with teammates but the best thing about him is yung gutom niya sa laro. Dahil dun he never stops learning and lagi sya hahanap ng ways to win.
“Given FEU’s very rich history and winning tradition, Renzo is ready for the challenge to help restore that glory. He is ready to charge next year.”