Historically known as one of the best basketball programs in the country for seeking future talent, Lourdes School of Mandaluyong hopes to sustain its branding of excellence following successful stints in the past two years.
From the same school that launched the careers of Gian Mamuyac, Aljun Melecio, Renzo Subido, BJ Andrade, and the Ildefonso brothers, LSM aims to thrust the next generation of Griffins into the limelight.
Their long journey has taken over two decades since their last finals appearance in major high school leagues.
Determined to finally move on to the next level, the all-boys school spent the past two years rebuilding both their elementary and high school programs after a prolonged absence of tournaments due to the pandemic.
As a result, LSM managed to finish as first runners-up in the 2023 Private Schools Athletic Development Association (PRADA) basketball tournament.
It then clinched the 2024 Philippine Athletic Youth Association (PAYA) championship.
The Griffins secured the PAYA 18-under title after a grueling 77-72 overtime victory against Ateneo de Manila High School on April 21 at the Xavier School Jacinto Tiu Sports Center in San Juan.
Coaches Jardin Estanislao and Gabriel Aganon steered a roster composed of Gerald Arnaiz, Fidel Arcaya, Lance Alvarez, Kiel Borleo, Julius Francia, Christian Canlas, Athan Caruncho, Uriel Dar, Kalix Dizon, Gil Esteban, Gabby Libunao, Yohanne Lacsamana, Earl Reyes, Alfonso Sonza, Aldryn Sasoy, and Kian Sebastian.
Building on their newfound momentum, the school concurrently competed in both club and school-based tournaments, eventually catching the eye of Global Hoops Manila to represent the country in Taiwan from July 26 to 30.
With their recent success, the cagers from Mandaluyong are looking to establish themselves once more as one of the top high school programs in the Metro.
