By Jerome Lagunzad
Reigning UAAP juniors basketball MVP CJ Cansino decided to stay put at University of Santo Tomas’ lair, giving new coach Aldin Ayo one of his essential pieces for the Growling Tigers’ rebuilding process.
The 6-foot-2 Cansino, considered as one of the most sough-after high school cagers in the country today, caught the eye of Ayo who even watched him up close and personal during his sensational season with the Tigers Cubs in the UAAP Season 80.
Ayo even posted a photo with Cansino, together with members of his UST coaching staff, on his personal Twitter account last Monday night, perhaps confirming that UST won the sweepstakes over other suitors like Letran, Far Eastern University and National University.
Cansino, only 18 years old, could give the Growling Tigers another potent weapon if and when he can live up to his billing following his remarkable showing with the Tiger Cubs, whom he led to a semifinal finish.
Cansino also became the first Tiger Cub to hoist the highest individual award since current Ginebra sophomore Kevin Ferrer did the trick in 2010, thanks to his all-around numbers of 24.6 points, 12.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.4 steals per game.
Over at La Salle camp which is also in a transition process following the exit of Ayo last December, the Green Archers have welcomed returning wingman Mark Dyke and former Bulldogs guard Jordan Bartlett with open arms.
