BACOLOD City – Bacolod Tay Tung High School Thunderbolts guard Paul Barcelona has opted to continue his remaining high school years with De La Salle Zobel Junior Archers.
According to the Bacolod City native, it is his dream to play in Manila-based leagues like UAAP boys basketball and is grateful to the Junior Archers for making it possible.
“I am feeling excited and positive for this new learning opportunity given me to play in one of the most sought-after schools in basketball world in La Salle,” Barcelona told Panay News on Thursday.
He added: “I am giving my full commitment to enhance and work hard for my team in every tournament possible. I know it is not going to be easy but I will strive hard to make it happen.”
Barcelona previously played for the St. John’s Institute-Bacolod Falcons squad before moving to the Thunderbolts, whose 3×3 squad he recently helped to a bronze medal finish in the 2024 Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City.
Pete Barcelona, Paul’s father, shared that it was the Junior Archers coaching staff who contacted Thunderbolts head coach Nico Lopingco about the possibility of recruiting his son.
“De La Salle Zobel contacted coach Nico to ask if Paul is available, and then nung sinamahan niya si Paul sa Zobel, he liked it there, so that’s how he committed to them,” Pete said.
“As Paul’s father, I am just grateful for every great chances that Paul has, and that I’m happy that great coaches and schools were able to notice his skills and drive when it comes to playing basketball,” he added.
Paul, who currently stands 6-foot-1, hopes that his incoming two-year stint with the Junior Archers will help him land a spot on De Salle University Green Archers team in college.
“If possible, I would want to be part of the (DLSU Green Archers) team come college time. They have one of the best basketball programs in the country and also one of the top schools where I can attain excellent academic education.”
“But I will just continue to work and play hard to improve my skills so that wherever my future journey in basketball takes me, I am going to give my best shot for the team,” he added./PN
