THE University of San Jose-Recoletos Baby Jaguars All-Star forward Kevin Guibao is set to soar to new heights after giving his commitment to join the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws in the UAAP.
This development means that the athletic 6-foot-3 prospect is headed to Manila to try his luck with the Olsen Racela-mentored squad. Guibao confirmed the move on Wednesday evening, August 5, after informing school officials and the basketball team's staff of his decision.
Guibao, who was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2019 Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) Partner's Cup, said he was a bundle of emotions upon finally making the decision to move to Manila. He mentioned that it was not an easy decision to make and one that he came to after extensively consulting with his family.
"I have a lot of mixed emotions right now. I'm excited to hopefully play in the country's highest level of collegiate basketball competition," said Guibao, who led the Baby Jaguars to the preseason title last year. However, USJ-R was not able to sustain its success and faltered during the regular season, failing to crack the Final Four.
Guibao spoke to FEU head coach Olsen Racela and another proud product of the Tamaraws, Talisay City's own Roger Ray Pogoy, who now plays for the Gilas Pilipinas and Talk N Text in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). He said the comfort level that he had with Racela played a crucial role in his decision.
"I feel comfortable right away after talking with the coaching staff. Also, I am very aware with the high level training program that they have," said Guibao.
Racela, meanwhile, was ecstatic with Guibao's commitment, saying he liked the youngster's potential and drive.
"We like Kevin's upside. He's a natural wing and is athletic at 6'3". It's going to be up to us coaches to develop him so that he reaches his full potential," said the prolific point guard turned head coach.
For Guibao, the chance to play in the UAAP is already a dream come true.
"It's been my dream to play for a bigger league and to develop my competency in basketball further," added Guibao. (JNP)