By CARLO ANOLIN
Univesity of Santo Tomas Beninese center Soulemane Chabi Yo opted to forego his final playing year in the UAAP as he takes his act to Europe, the university’s official publication has reported.
In a report by the Varsitarian, Chabi Yo said the COVID-19 pandemic “destroyed all the plans” he had as a Growling Tiger.
Chabi Yo is reportedly going to suit up  in a Division 4 squad in Spain.
“I hope you guys will understand me. Thank you all and thanks to the UST community for the love and support. I wish all the best to the team and also good luck on the upcoming season,” Chabi Yo told the Varsitarian.
The 6-foot-6 Beninese center helped UST advance to the UAAP Season 82 Finals under the tutelage of former head coach Aldin Ayo.
The Tigers climbed the stepladder playoffs and prevailed over Far Eastern University and University of the Philippines but yielded to Ateneo in the Finals.
Chabi Yo, 25, posted norms of 16.93 points and led the rebounding department with 14.73 to bag the UAAP Season 82 Most Valuable Player honor.
UST was marred with controversies last year with the infamous “Sorsogon bubble,” which resulted in a major shake-up within the men’s basketball roster and coaching staff highlighted by the departure of CJ Cansino, Ira Batiller, Brent Paraiso, Rhenz Abando, June Asuncion, Mark Nonoy, Deo Cuajao, Bismark Lina, and Ayo. (Carlo Anolin) ###
