Xavier’s Teng picks La Salle

MANILA, Philippines—A mix of Chinese tradition, a father’s affiliation and a naturally competitive spirit led to the decision of high school sensation Jeron Teng to pick La Salle.

Teng, the Xavier star who exploded for 104 points in a single game last year, said he opted to join the Green Archers in the next UAAP men’s basketball season even if several college squads courted his services.

“We went to the temple and it said it’s best for me to go there,” Teng said after the Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards on Saturday night.

In Chinese beliefs, temple visitors perform certain rituals to receive spiritual answers.

With his record-breaking exploits last year, Teng received the Tony Siddayao award, an honor given to young achievers, along with Eumir Marcial (boxing), Markie Alcala (badminton), Rustom Lim (cycling) and Raymond Debuque (powerlifting).

Teng said he also believes in the sports program of the Archers, who aim to rebound from their sixth-place finish last year behind the backing of tycoon Danding Cojuangco.

“My dad used to play for Mr. Cojuangco, so that’s also one factor,” said Teng, the son of former PBA cager Alvin.