The current Under-16 batch of National University Nazareth School is filled with second-generation hoopers.
There’s the son of Robby Celiz, Rob, the son of Ronnie Matias, Mot, and the son of coach Britt Reroma, Sean.
The Bullpups also have the brother of Arvin Tolentino, Aiden, as one of their primary big men.
But shining brightly among this batch is one Shaun Lucido.
Lucido, a 16-year-old winger from Bicol, has been leading the charge for NUNS, averaging 24.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 3.0 steals per game.
Though soft-spoken, the 6-foot hooper lets his game do the talking.
“Si Shaun, silent operator siya. Kahit hindi namin siya mabigyan ng bola, he stays composed,” expressed Bullpups head coach Kevin de Castro.
(C) Julius Domondon/UAAP Season 86 Media Team
Admittedly, Lucido knew that there’s pressure to deliver once he enrolled at NUNS.
“Pagpasok ko pa lang sa NU, talagang nasa isip ko na gusto ko mapachampion sila at magkapangalan ako dito,” said Lucido, who patterns his game to Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker.
“Talagang pinagtrabahuan ko ito since Day One.”
Of course, he was a bit intimidated by his well-pedigreed teammates at first.
But once he got to know them, he realized one thing — brotherhood knows no names.
“Siyempre sila kilala sila dito sa Manila tapos ako taga-probinsya ako. Dapat pag nakatapak ka dito, bibigay mo yung best mo,” he added.
Besides winning the championship this Saturday, Lucido’s next goal is to make it to the next stage.
And this is to make it to the Bullpups’ High School Boys’ team next year.
“Sana makapasok ako sa lineup ng Under-19.”
