FILE–Former Ateneo player Raffy Celis has joined St. Benilde Blazers. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Former UAAP prospects SJ Moore and Raffy Celis have committed to player St. Benilde to bolster the future of the Blazers’ men’s basketball program in the NCAA.
Strong Group Athletics, the backer of the Blazers, on Thursday made the announcement of the team’s newcomers.
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Celis saw action for the Ateneo Blue Eagles in Season 86 last year, while Moore is making his NCAA homecoming after playing one season for the UST Growling Tigers, appearing in 11 games.
READ: NCAA: Benilde soars to 4-0, JRU enters win column
St. Benilde coach Charles Tiu has been eyeing the 6-foot-3 Celis since he was playing for Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in high school.
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“I tried to recruit him before he went to Ateneo. We went to Cebu with Boss Frank and Jacob Lao to visit him. In fact, we already had an agreement in place, but at the last second, Ateneo gave a much better offer, and he decided to go there,” Tiu said.
“Somehow things fell into place, and he will end up playing for us after all. He’s a really good player, and after playing and training under Coach Tab (Baldwin) for the last year, I’m sure he’s gotten even better now.”
Tiu is also elated for Moore’s league homecoming after shining in high school with Arellano.
READ: SJ Moore raring for positive challenge with new UST teammates
The Blazers coach said that UST coach Pido Jarencio had given his blessing to Moore, who decided to transfer after one year with the Tigers.
“Like Raffy, he really caught my eye playing in the NBTC and even in the high school ranks of the NCAA. I also tried to recruit him, but I know UST gave him a really good deal,” said Tiu. “Somehow, he wanted to transfer and move to us, so we will gladly welcome him. I had spoken to Coach Pido and have his blessing about SJ.”
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Celis and Moore will be eligible to play for St. Benilde in NCAA Season 101 after one year residency.