By Jerome Lagunzad
University of Santo Tomas secured another big piece in its rebuilding process while Centro Escolar University reloaded its guard and wingman rotations by getting the vital cogs of reigning Universities and Colleges Basketball League Season 2 champion Colegio de San Lorenzo which disbanded its team by surprise.
The Growling Tigers, now under two-time collegiate champion coach Aldin Ayo, acquired Benin native center Soulemane Chabi Yo, considered by many as one of the most dominant foreign student-athletes outside to the UAAP and NCAA circles.
“He’s very disappointed with what happened to the Griffins. He helped them make several title runs, including the UCBL. But now, he’s ready to move on and continue his career with the Tigers,” said an unimpeachable source, adding the 6-foot-6 Chabi Yo already joined UST’s training sessions.
Meanwhile, the Scorpions could fill up the scoring void which will be left by Congolese center Rod Ebondo with the entry of reigning UCBL Finals MVP Charles Callano, John Formento, John Rojas and possibly wingman Gelo Sablan, son of former UST coach Boy Sablan.
“Honestly, they’re really getting interest from other schools,” added the source, who is privy to the development but spoke on the condition of anonymity. “Those players can really help whatever program they’re going to join. It’s just a matter of finding the right fit for them.”
The disbandment of the Griffins, however, remain a perplexing puzzle since the team management and coach Bonnie Garcia have yet to address what’s the main reason behind since their training session was called off last month.
