Lyceum of the Philippines University announced the commitment of Grade 12 standouts Jasper Matienzo and Peter Mulligan to the Pirates on Tuesday.
Matienzo, a 6-foot-3 all-around forward hailing from Santa Cruz, Laguna, showcased his skills during NCAA Season 99 as the leading scorer for the Junior Pirates.
Averaging an impressive 11.44 points, 4.78 rebounds, 1.89 assists, 1.44 steals, and 1.0 blocks per contest, Matienzo brings versatility and dynamism to the Pirates’ lineup.
Meanwhile, Mulligan, a 6-foot guard from Tagum City, Davao, contributed significantly with norms of 6.56 points and 2.67 rebounds.
Pirates head coach Gilbert Malabanan expressed his excitement about the newest additions to the roster, stating, “We are delighted that Jasper and Peter have chosen to stay with us. I believe and trust in their capabilities, and they are a great fit for our system.”
The Junior Pirates, finishing with a 2-7 record last season, also bid farewell to graduating players Christian Villa, Andrei Lobos, Luis Pariñas, and Francis Jake Ruiz.
Malabanan emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity from grassroots to the senior level.
“It is crucial for us to maintain continuity from grassroots to the senior level. Developing players from the grassroots and teaching them our system will make it easier for them when they reach the senior level,” said Malabanan, now entering his fourth year as the head coach of Lyceum.
The Pirates finished in fourth place last season.
