University of the Visayas loses two rising cagers to the University of the Philippines

A preseason full of success and promise came to a screeching halt for the winningest team in Cesafi history as the University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers lost two of their very best players—high-scoring guard Jun Manzo and last year’s Mythical Five member Leonard Santillan—who were recruited to join the University of the Philippines’ (UP) Fighting Maroons.

The development was confirmed by UV athletic director Chris Mejarito and Manzo, with whom Cebu Daily News was able to interview right before the Maroons’ practice session on Wednesday afternoon.

“As a player, we’re always looking to get better and I just feel being here at UP offered me that opportunity,” said Manzo, who made a name for himself in last year’s Cesafi finals where he had several scoring outbursts against the University of San Carlos Warriors.

“I’ve been practicing with the team for three weeks already and it’s been great. I feel right at home with coach Bo (Perasol) especially since Bisaya din siya. Plus the offense that they run here fits my style of play. It’s fast-paced and up-tempo with a lot of driving and kicking and I’m used to that,” shared the wonderkid from Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

Ironically, the biggest recruitment chip that the Maroons had was former UV standout Paul Desiderio, now one of UP’s main guys.

“Paul (Desiderio) helped get us here. Aside from UP having a great educational and athletic program, having him around to help guide us here was a huge factor in my decision to transfer,” added Manzo, who needs to establish one-year residency before being able to suit up for UP in the UAAP.

However, as welcome as the two have been at the Diliman camp, their departure has left a bitter taste in UV’s mouth, especially with the Green Lancers in the thick of preparations for the upcoming Cesafi season after falling short of the title last year.

With Manzo gone and former starter Alfred Codilla’s eligibility at an end, the Lancers are now left without a reliable point guard. Now, untested rookie Sheldon Gahi is left to man the position.

Santillan’s departure also left the Lancers with one less scoring option.

CDN was able to contact team manager Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas but the young solon declined to comment. He did say that he was not aware of the development as he was busy on the campaign trail.