Juniors standouts Padrigao, Lazaro commit to stay in Ateneo

Despite having one more year in the junior ranks, Blue Eaglets Forthsky Padrigao and Josh Lazaro have committed to stay in Ateneo de Manila University for their collegiate career.

In a virtual press conference Monday night, the two players said the Ateneo education and basketball program were huge factors in their decision to remain in the Eagles' nest.

Ateneo team manager Chris Quimpo said the team decided to bring them in as early as now to prepare them for the senior level ahead of time.

"It's always a pleasure for our program to bring players from the high school ranks into the university because we see that as a big advantage whenever it can happen," said Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin.

"We're very proud and very excited and happy to be able to say that [their] future is going to be with the Blue Eagles," he added.

During his junior year, Padrigao posted an average of 17.2 points, 4.13 rebounds, and 4.13 assists per game. He also became a member of the rare six-man mythical team in UAAP Season 81.

Lazaro, meanwhile, listed 13.2 markers and 12.8 boards per game during his first year in Ateneo.

Prior to being members of the Blue Eaglets, Padrigao played for Adamson while Lazaro transferred from San Beda-Taytay.

Both Padrigao and Lazaro were part of the Batang Gilas team which competed in the 2017 FIBA U-16 Asia Cup and 2018 FIBA U-17 World Cup.

Aside from the two high school standouts, Fil-American guard Chris Koon also confirmed his transfer to Ateneo. The three players are expected to make their debut in Season 84. —MGP, GMA News