Ayo to ink six-year deal with UST

Aldin Ayo has formalized his transfer to University of Santo Tomas with a reported long-term deal.

The Varsitarian, UST’s official publication, broke the news early Friday, ending speculations on the former La Salle mentor’s new post.

Ayo is reportedly signing a six-year contract with UST, giving him ample time to turn around a basketball program that is in dire need of a reboot.

The official announcement is expected to be made next week, The Varsitarian reported.

Ayo’s top deputy, Louie Gonzalez, had replaced him as La Salle head coach.

The 40-year-old mentor will be in charge of his third school in four years as he also tries to sustain his triumphant streak which saw him win championships with Letran in the NCAA and La Salle in the UAAP.

Ayo garnered a 30-5 record in his two-year stay with the Green Archers, including the UAAP Season 79 title in 2016.

His biggest challenge, however, is to restore the glory days of the 18-time champion.

The Tigers had a humiliating 1-13 run under Boy Sablan in Season 80 won by Ateneo.

Ayo will have Marvin Lee and 6-foot-8 Cameroonian Steve Akomo at his disposal. —RANDOLPH B. LEONGSON, INQUIRER.NET