The country has seen many brothers play together in the rich history of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
In basketball alone, there’s the Ravenas and Nietos of Ateneo; the Escotos of Far Eastern University; the Riveros of La Salle; the Yus, Ildefonsos, and Diputados of National University; and many more.
Having three siblings play on one team is already close to impossible. The Altomontes of Ateneo Softball — namely Antoinette, Cheska, and Cat — are the ones to last achieve the feat.
But having four brothers in one team is the dream of Joe, Javi, Juan, and Jordi.
“I’m not sure if that’s gonna happen eh — we’re not yet sure if that can really happen. But if ever, then it’s gonna be very, very great for our family,” said Joe, the eldest of the quartet at 22 years old, during the Prospects Pod, presented by SMART and supported by Chris Sports.
But a lot of stars need to align for that to happen.
First off, incoming super senior Javi, 22, and incoming senior Juan, 20, need to return to University of the Philippines come Season 84. The two are on leave to play for MPBL club Nueva Ecija.
Then Jordi, 15, needs to commit to the Fighting Maroons after his final year in UPIS.
“Ako kasi, I’m pretty sure with my plans right after MPBL. Pero I’m open na before or after ‘yung UAAP para hindi magkaka-conflict, para kapag UAAP season na, I want to give it my all,” Javi said, guaranteeing his return come Season 84.
“Since high school palagi kong sinasabi sa sarili ko gusto kong mag-champion ‘yung UP bago mag graduate eh.”
Meanwhile, Juan added, “Yeah, for me actually, it would mean the world to me. We have not seen four brothers in one team.”
Jordi’s commitment to UP is a no-brainer, especially if his older brothers play in Team A in two years.
“Playing basketball and going to UP, all of those are influenced by my brothers and my dad.”
But for Joe, playing together will not just be for their family — they are doing this to help end UP’s 34-year title drought.
“Hopefully, we could give a big help to the school and sana if ever it does happen, it will work out.”
