Lebron Nieto decides to stay with Ateneo Blue Eagles

Lebron Nieto joins Ateneo Blue Eagles’ senior team. –CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Ateneo will have another Nieto at its disposal once UAAP Season 86 rolls around.

The Blue Eagles, who enjoyed the services of now-PBA pro players Matt and Mike Nieto back in Seasons 80-82, have secured the commitment of the twins’ younger brother Lebron.

Lebron said watching his older brothers play for Ateneo led to his decision to stay with Ateneo in the seniors’ division.

“Growing up, I always watched my brothers (Matt and Mike) play for the Blue and White in the UAAP, so it was a big dream of mine to play and win for Ateneo as well,” Lebron said.

“To people saying that it was my destiny to be a Blue Eagle, I understand that many were expecting me to become a Blue Eagle, but to me, being a Blue Eagle is something that is earned – one that I worked hard for every day.”

The younger Nieto balled out in his final year in the UAAP boys’ basketball tournament with 16.46 points, 4.85 rebounds, 4.69 assists and 2.85 steals per game.

His tremendous final year for Ateneo High earned him the right to be the No.12-ranked high school player in the Philippines by the NBTC.

FILE–Brothers Mike and Matt Nieto during a championship run with Ateneo in the UAAP. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Add coach Tab Baldwin to the list of people who are excited to see Lebron stay in a Blue and White jersey.

“We are excited to have Lebron on the team and we think he has a bright future but there is an awful lot of work just like there is with any incoming freshman. He is enthusiastic and a hardworking kid,” the veteran tactician said.

“I think the future looks bright for Lebron and we look forward to a tough kid and a long and successful relationship with another Nieto in the Blue Eagle family,” added Baldwin.

Lebron joins the likes of Raffy Celis, Michael Asoro and Kobe Demisana as the newest names for the Blue Eagles for next season.