Jared Bahay finds new home in Ateneo

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 25) -- Jared Bahay took a detour in Katipunan and found a new home for his promising collegiate basketball career.

The top high school prospect from Cebu confirmed on Thursday that he will play for the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles in the UAAP.

"I have decided to continue my studies at Ateneo de Manila and play for the Ateneo men's basketball team," said Bahay in a statement. "I believe that sustaining my Jesuit education will help unlock and sharpen my potential to the fullest, both on and off the court."

The 5-foot-11 guard from Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu initially committed to play for the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons but had a change of heart due to "outside forces."

Aside from UP and ADMU, the hotly anticipated rookie shared to CNN Philippines' News Night that De La Salle University has expressed interest in him.

Bahay recently steered the SHS-ADC to its third straight title in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. Season 23 juniors tournament.

He averaged 13.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists for the Philippine team in the FIBA Under-16 Asian Championship in 2022,.

With Bahay's arrival in Ateneo, the Blue Eagles are eyeing to return to the podium this year after finishing fourth overall with a 7-win, 7-loss record in UAAP Season 86.

"We're really happy that Jared opted to come to Ateneo. We're very excited, knowing that he will be a significant part of our program moving forward," said Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin in a statement.