All eyes will be on Jared Bahay as he makes his debut for the Ateneo Blue Eagles in UAAP Season 87.
Even before beginning his UAAP career, Jared Bahay, the top-ranked high school player in the country, had already made headlines after deciding to switch his commitment from the University of the Philippines to Ateneo de Manila University.
Despite the initial shock and speculation surrounding his decision, Bahay is settling in well at his new home and embracing the challenges that come with it.
Speaking to the media during the 2024 NBTC National Finals press conference, Bahay shared his thoughts on his transition to Ateneo, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and adjusting to a new environment.
“Siyempre Ateneo and I are already building relationships kasi it’s almost time to fly here and to move out from Cebu, from my comfort zone. I’m trying to build relationships and I think that’s it,” said Bahay.
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One of the main factors that attracted Bahay to Ateneo was the coaching prowess of Tab Baldwin.
Despite having to learn a whole new system, the 5-foot-9 CESAFI MVP from the Sacred Heart School - Ateneo de Cebu is confident in his ability to adapt and thrive under Baldwin's guidance.
"Siyempre iba kasi you know, Coach Tab (Baldwin) ‘di ba, one of the best coaches here in the Philippines and one of the best programs ‘yung Ateneo. Ibang-iba talaga ‘yung sistema ni Coach Tab sa’min sa Cebu pero masasabi kong kayang-kaya ko ‘yan," Bahay explained.
“Coach Tab, pinupush ka niya talaga eh. Bini-build talaga ‘yung confidence mo. Kapag rookie ka, hindi ka na niya kasi tini-treat na rookie eh. Pinupush ka niya talaga tapos nilalagay out of your comfort zone para maging komportable ka soon sa mga games and sa kahit anong [sitwasyon],” he added.
Luckily for Bahay, he will also be reuniting with familiar faces at Ateneo, particularly his former teammates Michael Asoro and Raffy Celis from Ateneo de Cebu.
“Of course, having Michael [Asoro] and Raffy [Celis], my former teammates in Ateneo de [Cebu]. They help me a lot kasi they introduce me to a lot of new teammates, siyempre new drills of Coach Tab, so they’ve been helping me a lot,” said Bahay.
As Bahay continues his journey with the Blue Eagles, it’s safe to say that many UAAP fans will be on the lookout for his official debut in the league come Season 87 which is just a few months away.