NCAA high school standout SJ Moore commits to UST

Another blue chip recruit has committed to University of Santo Tomas as former Arellano University Braves standout SJ Moore has decided to play for the España crew.

The 6-foot-2 high-flying guard, who recently put on a show in the NCAA Season 98 juniors basketball tournament, will suit up for the Growling Tigers come UAAP Season 86 to kick off his collegiate career.

"Sa UST ko nakita na bagay talaga ako. Nakikita kong mas magagamit ako dito at mas gagaling ako kaya excited ako maging part dito sa UST," said Moore, who was formally welcomed by coach Pido Jarencio and team managers Eric Ang and Waiyip Chong.

(It's in UST where I can see myself fit. I saw that I will be utilized here while also improving, that's why I'm excited to be a part of UST.)

UST head coach Pido Jarencio said Moore's arrival at the Tigers' lair is a big boost, especially in their bid to reclaim the school's old glory.

"Alam natin yung kalibre ni SJ at nakikita natin siya na future ng UST. Masayang masaya tayo na pinili niyang sumama sa atin dito," said Jarencio.

(We know SJ's calibre and we can see him as the future of UST. We are happy that he decided to join us.)

The 19-year-old Moore averaged 19.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals, 1.3 assists, and 1.3 blocks to lead Arellano in the previous NCAA season. He also joined the recently-concluded NBTC All-Star Game, steering Team Hustle to the victory en route to bagging the MVP plum.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News