MANILA – Negrense center Henjz Gabriel “Kobe” Demisana is leaving the University of the Philippines nest to join Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles for college.
The Pontevedra, Negros Occidental native formalized his commitment to the reigning UAAP champions on Friday after listening to offers from a number of Manila-based schools and universities.
“Growing up, Ateneo is one of my dream schools,” said the 18-year-old center. “The main reason I chose Ateneo is that I know I can grow more as a player and as a student here.”
“Alam naman natin na Ateneo is one of the top universities in the Philippines and I will learn a lot here hindi lang sa court kung hindi pati rin sa about life after basketball,” Demisana added.
The 6-foot-8 Demisana was a former standout of Bacolod Tay Tung High School Thunderbolts before he forced his way out of the school to join the University of the Philippines Integrated School.
In his sole season with the Junior Maroons, Demisana delivered averages of 17.64 points, 12.64 rebounds, 4.07 blocks, 2.64 assists, and 2.14 steals but his school only won one of their 14 games.
Demisana, who was also tapped to play for Batang Gilas last year, said he is looking forward to be handled by former Gilas Pilipinas mentor Thomas Baldwin at the Blue Eagles den.
“I am so excited to be under Coach Tab, primarily because of his experience and career. I know there is still so much for me to learn, and I am confident that Coach Tab will give his best to teach me,” he said.
“I want to absorb all the knowledge and skills that Coach Tab can impart because he knows what is best for every player,” added Demisana. “I believe it is God’s plan for me, and I trust that more opportunities are coming. So, I thank God for this.”
Demisana joins fellow Negrense Raffy Celis and Michael Asoro of Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu; and Gilas Youth standouts Mason Amos and Kyle Gamber as part of Ateneo’s recruitment class for 2023./PN
