Incoming Ateneo Blue Eagles rookie Jared Bahay has made history by becoming the first guard to top the National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) rankings for two consecutive years. The 18-year-old playmaker, who has committed to Ateneo for college, secured the top spot in the rankings for the second year in a row, following in the footsteps of former Ateneo Blue Eaglet center Kai Sotto.
Bahay, hailing from Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, is also the first non-UAAP and non-NCAA player to achieve this feat. He will lead a six-player contingent from different regions in a showdown at the Mall of Asia Arena on March 23.
Following Bahay in the rankings is Kieffer Alas of La Salle Zobel in second place, and presumptive NCAA Season 99 juniors Most Valuable Player Amiel Acido of Perpetual Help in third. Rounding up the top five are UST’s Andrei Dungo and Adamson’s Tebol Garcia.
NBTC program director Eric Altamirano praised the depth of talent in grassroots basketball in the Philippines, expressing hope for the continued growth and development of promising prospects across the country. The NBTC National Finals will feature international and regional stars on Team Heart and Team Hustle, with additional highlights such as an All-Star Game from the Manila Live girls tournament and the inaugural Manila Showcase.
The top 24 players in the rankings include standout athletes from various schools and regions, showcasing the wealth of basketball talent in the country.
