William Navarro is ready to write a new chapter in his young basketball career.
The all-around 6-foot-6 forward is set to join the 2021 PBA Draft as he submitted his application form to the league’s office in Libis, Pasig, Saturday afternoon.
This would mean that Navarro, who turns 24 on February 3, will no longer play out his final year in Ateneo. He is set to get his undergraduate degree this semester.
And it has been a long journey for Navarro.
Back in NCAA Season 91, Navarro was with San Beda University. Despite playing in 18 games for the Red Lions, he only totalled just 83 minutes of gametime.
In December of 2016, he would transfer to Ateneo where he found his niche.
Navarro was lined up by the Blue Eagles in Seasons 81 and 82, becoming the team’s post creator that helped the school win back-to-back UAAP crowns.
He ended his Ateneo career with averages of 5.16 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.73 blocks in 30 games played.
During the Manama window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, Navarro was called up by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas. He played in one game versus Thailand, tallying four points, a rebound, and a steal.
The uncertainty on when the Season 84 tournament will be played led to Navarro’s decision.
Navarro is also the only Filipino to be included in the youth program of storied Greek club Panathinaikos B.C.
It is now up to Navarro whether he joins the regular or the Gilas draft of the event set on March 14.
