THREE GRADUATING UST Tiger Cubs have committed to continue their basketball journey with the Growling Tigers, choosing to remain in their alma mater as they move up to the collegiate ranks.
Tiger Cubs head coach Manu Iñigo confirmed that prized team captain Koji Buenaflor and standouts Charles Bucsit and Carl Manding would stay in the Tigers’ lair and would add muscle to the men’s team in Season 88.
“[T]hey told me they’re staying in UST. I’m really happy and excited to see them compete at the seniors level,” Inigo told The Flame.
The champion tactician emphasized the value of “continuity” in nurturing homegrown talent and sustaining the program’s success.
“We’ve always believed and advocated the grassroots program. Continuity is the key,” he said.
The trio played pivotal roles in ending UST’s 24-year title drought in the UAAP boys’ basketball division and in clinching the Season 87 crown last March 27.
Among the most highly sought-after prospects in his batch, the 18-year-old Buenaflor received offers from both UAAP and NCAA schools but ultimately chose to remain in the Tigers’ den.
“There were a lot of other offers, but the priority has always been UST,” Inigo said.
The Tiger Cubs skipper wrapped up his final high school season averaging 12.6 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.59 assists per game. Manding posted 8.53 points and 5.0 rebounds, while Bucsit contributed 8.34 points and 6.37 boards per outing.
Buenaflor is expected to fill the void left by graduating forwards Christian Manaytay and Migs Pangilinan. Meanwhile, Manding and Bucsit will reinforce the Tigers’ backcourt alongside veterans Nic Cabañero and Forth Padrigao.
For Inigo, the decision of his players to stay and grow within the system is a testament to UST’s strong culture and mission to restore its basketball glory.
“It just shows that we are all aligned in one goal and that is to bring back championships to UST,” he said.
With the commitment of the three standouts, Inigo described this development as the “most promising” yet for the UST basketball program.
The Growling Tigers capped off their Season 87 campaign with a bronze finish, marking their best finish since Season 82. F
