Another promising Gilas Pilipinas Girls star is set to soar at Ateneo de Manila University.
Hannah Lopez, a 5-foot-8 forward, announced her commitment to Ateneo on Monday.
She joins fellow Gilas Girls talent Kai Oani as part of the new wave of talent for the Blue Eagles.
Lopez, who will turn 18 next month, shared the heartfelt announcement on social media, expressing gratitude to her family, coaches, and teammates.
“I am excited to announce my commitment to Ateneo de Manila University,” Lopez stated. “First, I want to thank God for blessing me with this opportunity and for always guiding me. I am forever grateful to all my coaches and trainers for their time and effort, which have shaped me into the player I am today.”
Lopez also paid tribute to her former teammates and her support network at LSG.
“Thank you, Coach LA, for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” she added, expressing particular appreciation for Ateneo head coach LA Mumar, whose belief in her helped guide her decision.
Having studied and trained at Denmark High School in Forsyth County, Georgia, she developed her game playing for the Redline Basketball Club in the competitive AAU circuit in the United States.
She was also part of the Gilas team that competed in the FIBA U16 Women’s Asian Championship 2021 Division B.
Ateneo head coach LA Mumar is optimistic about what Lopez brings to the program.
“She will bring a high basketball IQ and outside shooting for our team,” said Mumar. “We are more excited that she dreams of getting a degree in Ateneo. She is the kind of student-athlete that we are looking for in our program.”
