NCAA Season 101 Juniors Most Valuable Player Sean Franco is set to continue his basketball career in the UAAP after committing to the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.
Franco, who starred for Arellano University’s junior team, will move to Diliman as UP continues to strengthen its lineup for the upcoming UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament.
The 6-foot-2 forward from Cagayan de Oro delivered an impressive campaign in his final juniors season, averaging 16.84 points, 10 rebounds, 2.68 assists, 1.89 steals, and 1.79 blocks per game.
UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde believes Franco can immediately contribute to the program following his standout run with the Arellano Braves.
“Makakatulong agad sa’tin si Sean kasi nakita naman natin how he led yung Arellano in his last year,” said Monteverde. “Kahit natalo sila sa finals, he didn’t stop working.”
Franco also expressed gratitude to the Braves program as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.
“Una sa lahat, gusto kong magpasalamat kay God sa talent at sa mga blessings na dumating sa akin, at sa paggabay Niya sa akin araw-araw. Sa pamilya ko na laging nandiyan para sa akin sa kabila ng aking mga ups and downs, maraming salamat sa walang sawang suporta at pagmamahal,” Franco said.
“I am truly grateful to all the coaching staff. I’ve spent three years with you, and throughout that time, you have taught and guided me to make the right choices both on and off the court. Thank you for believing in me, for your patience, and for your unwavering support,” he added.
Franco joins a rebuilding but promising UP squad that features young talents as they aim to bounce back from their Season 88 championship defeat. (AC)
