Dondon Hontiveros’ son, Isaiah, to play for UC in Cesafi juniors hoops
The apple certainly did not fall too far from the tree.
This after budding wingman Isaiah Hontiveros decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and play for the University of Cebu (UC).
Isaiah, the son of Cebuano basketball legend Dondon Hontiveros, confirmed the move in an exclusive talk with Cebu Daily News.
Already standing just an inch shorter than his famous father at 6 feet and 1 inch, the 16-year-old left-handed off-guard said that the initial plan was for him to stop school for a year while continuing to practice with Far Eastern University.
However, his father concocted the idea of the younger Hontiveros playing in his hometown of Cebu, for the school that gave his father a shot at becoming one of the more famous Cebuano players in the country.
The choice came down to UC and Dondon’s former high school, Don Bosco. Isaiah eventually chose to play for the Baby Webmasters of head coach Joever Samonte.
“I chose UC because I felt like I could really grow as a player and have confidence in myself knowing that my dad gained a lot of valuable attributes in this school as well,” said Isaiah, a former player of La Salle-Greenhills.
Dondon, a former PBA player and former member of the Philippine National Team, was grateful that his son was allowed the chance to try out for both schools to give him the best shot at making a comfortable decision.
“I wanted Ice to try both Don Bosco and UC for him to decide where he would like to go. I am thankful to my close friend and former teammate in Don Bosco, Vincent Escobido, for letting him practice there. And to Atty. (Baldomero) Estenzo for the opportunity to play in UC,” said the 41-year-old wingman.
Isaiah conveyed that he understood the pressure that came with being the son of such a high-profile player, and added that he doesn’t mind. In fact, he is keen on embracing the challenge.
“Being the son of a great pro basketball player, I already felt the pressure ever since I started playing basketball. I am aware that there will be a lot of pressure and comparisons but like what my dad said, instead of letting the pressure get to me, I should rather take it as a challenge. Plus basketball is a game that I love therefore I will enjoy every single moment playing it,” Isaiah said.
The young and promising Hontiveros will make his debut in this season of the Cesafi which starts August 25.