Buds Buddin stands at a familiar crossroads for elite student-athletes who have already conquered the collegiate stage: return for one final UAAP run or take the leap into the professional ranks while his stock is at its peak.
Fresh off helping National University secure a historic sixth consecutive title, where he chipped in eight points and 17 receptions in the Season 88 Finals, Buddin left his future hanging in the balance.
He revealed that his longtime mentor Dante Alinsunurin will play the decisive role in determining whether he suits up again for Season 89 or pursues an opportunity to play for a club overseas.
In a five-set Game 1 thriller, Buddin erupted for 20 points, 18 excellent receptions, and seven excellent digs. He then provided eight points, 17 excellent receptions, and two excellent digs in the title-clinching win.
“Ako kasi, siyempre, bilang pangalawang tatay ko si Coach Dante, kumbaga sa kanya ako lagi nakasalalay,” said the four-time UAAP champion.
“Kung ano ang magiging desisyon niya, doon ako — kasi alam ko naman na over time, yung magiging desisyon niya para sa akin ay sa ikabubuti ko, sa ikabubuti ng future ko. Basta bahala si Coach Dante sa akin. Basta ako, ready ako sa kung ano ang magiging desisyon niya para sa akin kasi alam ko ‘di niya ako ipapahamak.”
Under Alinsunurin’s stewardship, the NU program has evolved into more than just a collegiate powerhouse. It has become a launchpad for international careers, built not only on championships but on a clear pathway toward global competition.
The system has produced players like Bryan Bagunas, Leo Aringo, and Owa Retamar, who have gone on to test their mettle in professional leagues across Asia — setting the standard for what NU athletes can aspire to beyond the UAAP.
For Alinsunurin, this global ambition is the core of the program’s identity. The titles are a byproduct of a deeper mission: preparing athletes for the demands of international volleyball.
“Kaya namin ginagawa ‘to, siguro ay para sa mga player namin na gusto naming maabot yung best nila — hindi lang sa national team, kundi outside the country,” said the Choco Mucho mentor. “Dito naman talaga tumatakbo yung programa namin. Sabi ko, hindi lang dapat sa Pilipinas yung career nila mag-grow. Sabi ko, ang plan talaga namin is makalaro sila internationally.
“Pinu-push lang namin yung sarili namin — nag-aaral, pumupunta sa mga training camps sa ibang bansa — para at least makilala kami, ma-recognize kami. Kung anuman ang matutunan namin, dinadala namin dito para pagdating sa international, lahat ng players ko ready.”
If this truly turns out to be Buddin’s final UAAP game, it was a fitting farewell. With his family watching from the stands at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, he delivered a performance and a moment that will linger far beyond the scoreboard.
Beyond his uncertain future, attention now turns to whether the Bulldogs can sustain their dominance and extend their dynasty to seven straight championships in Season 89.
For Buddin, the formula for continued success remains unchanged — even in his possible absence.
“Ako, very confident ako sa magiging performance ng mga rookies namin next season, kasi mahaba pa naman yung oras para mahanda nila ang sarili nila,” said the 24-year-old outside spiker from Palawan. “May mga off-season na leagues na alam kong mapapaghanda sa sarili nila.
“Siyempre sa sistema ni coach, kahit bata ka or rookie ka o kahit ano, pag nasa kay Coach Dante ka at mga coaches namin, hindi lang skills mahahasa sa iyo pati siyempre yung attitude mo sa loob ng court. Kaya alam ko na kahit na mawala man ako siguro next year, alam kong kakayanin pa rin nila.”
