ATENEO guard Jared Bahay is embracing a bigger leadership role this UAAP season as the Blue Eagles chase a championship while carrying the memory of their fallen teammates Divine Adili and Rene “Bobet” Baterbonia.
With Ateneo dealing with the difficult loss of two players, Bahay said his primary responsibility this season is to help guide the younger members of the squad and provide leadership alongside head coach Louie Alas.
“I think just being a leader for our team is the biggest thing for me,” Bahay said. “Guiding the new guys and helping coach Louie talk to our team.”
While Alas stressed that the Blue Eagles are not putting unnecessary expectations on themselves, Bahay admitted that the team has one clear goal in mind.
“I think everyone will agree that we’re aiming for the championship this season,” he said.
“Coach Louie said there are no expectations, but of course, we’re going to do our best. Each and every one, each and every member of our team. We’re going to do our best to achieve that goal.”
For Ateneo, however, the season goes beyond basketball.
The Blue Eagles are dedicating their campaign to Adili and Baterbonia, with patches bearing the initials “DA” and “RB” on their jerseys serving as a constant reminder of their fallen teammates.
“Seeing those patches again lets us remember them,” Bahay said.
“This season, we’re going to dedicate this season to them.”
Bahay said the dedication extends beyond the team itself, including the families of Adili and Baterbonia and the entire Ateneo community.
“To Divine and Rene, to their families, and of course, to the Ateneo community. And for us, personally,” he added.
Alas previously said that continuing to play is also part of the team’s healing process, stressing that the Blue Eagles want to honor their fallen teammates by competing rather than stepping away from the season.
For Bahay and Ateneo, the championship pursuit now carries an even deeper meaning: competing for the team, the community and the two teammates they will continue to carry with them throughout the season. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
