CJ Perez is out to make a name for himself with the Ateneo Blue Eagles. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
CJ Perez first burst into the collegiate basketball scene as a dynamic forward in San Sebastian where he was christened as an heir apparent to the iconic Calvin Abueva.
Both played with relentless hustle and energy and Perez was seen to be the one to carry the banner of the Golden Stags.
Ateneo, however, had its sights on the up-and-coming forward and after the 89th season of the NCAA, Perez had transferred to Katipunan.
On Thursday, Perez played his first game with the Ateneo Blue Eagles at the Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup and he delivered eight points and eight rebounds.
Perez said he doesn’t know if he can match what Abueva has done before him but he will do his best to make his own name at Ateneo.
“Hindi ko alam kasi si Calvin talaga yun eh,” said Perez. “Idol ko rin talaga si Calvin eh so hindi ko alam, siguro mas maganda kung gagawa talaga ako ng sarili kong pangalan.”
Perez had to sit out more than a year when he transferred from San Sebastian to Ateneo, which was still then under the tutelage of Bo Perasol.
Now he gets to follow the instructions of head coach Tab Baldwin, who is also the coach of the national team.
Perez said he is excited to play for Baldwin’s and learning under the Gilas coach would be of great help.
“Masaya naman yung experience kay coach Bo kasi nakapaglaro naman ako sa mga tune-up games, yun nga mag adjust ulit para kay coach Tab,” said Perez. “Sobrang malaking tulong yun sa akin kasi siya [Baldwin] ang may alam talaga basketball and marami akong matututunan sa kanya.”