THE University of Southern Philippines-Foundation (USP-F) Baby Panthers were a surprise third-placer in last year’s juniors competition of the Cebu Schools Athletic Federation Inc. (Cesafi).
That was by far the best finish achieved by the school, an achievement mainly credited to John Bryle Bahio, whose stock skyrocketed in his final junior year and has become a hot commodity among college teams.
Joph Cleopas, USP-F head coach, said at least three high-profile Cebu-based teams are trying to recruit his prized ward but the 6-foot-4 Bahio is inclined to join the San Beda Red Lions in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Cleopas revealed that San Beda team manager Jude Roque flew in to Cebu twice to talk to Bahia, convincing him to suit up for the Red Lions, who are gunning for a sixth straight championship in the upcoming NCAA season.
“He wants to play with San Beda. We just want to put everything in black and white,” said Cleopas, who once played for the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA.
Bahio, who will turn 17 on May 23, said he is overwhelmed by the interest shown by San Beda.
“It makes me proud and at the same time, it motivates me to work harder so I could prove my worth,” said Bahio, a two-time All-Star and a member of last year’s Cesafi juniors Mythical Team.
Bahio believes that playing in Manila will give him the needed exposure.
“My dream is to play in the big league and playing in Manila is a big steppingstone. But more than basketball, quality education is one of the factors why I am interested in suiting up with San Beda,” he said.
A consistent double-digit scorer in his final year with USP-F, Bahio, who hails from Olango Island in Lapu-Lapu City, thinks the brand of play in Cebu will serve him well once he struts his wares in the NCAA.
“Basketball here is very physical. It toughened me physically and mentally which will be very helpful once I play in Manila.”
Bahio, eldest in a brood of five, grew up idolizing Dondon Hontiveros, one of the best players that Cebu has ever produced.
“Good thing about JB, he is very versatile. He can play the 2, 3, 4 and 5 spots. He’s got a decent outside touch and can handle the ball well. He’s very coachable and hardworking, traits that made him one of our top players,” said Cleopas.