NU HS stars’ move to rival schools has coach’s blessing

FILE – NU coach Goldwin Monteverde. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Three key members of the multititled National University-Nazareth School team are moving to different UAAP schools as they brace for the challenge in the collegiate game.

Former Gilas youth team players Carl Tamayo and Gerry Abadiano have committed to University of the Philippines, while another NU stalwart, Kevin Quiambao, is moving to De La Salle as part of the rebuilding efforts of Green Archers coach Derrick Pumaren.

The Inquirer learned that the moves had the blessing of Bulldogs coach Goldwin Monteverde, who is bound to lose key players who could have served as the cornerstones for the college program in the coming seasons. Monteverde also coached the three players at NU.

UP team manager Agaton Uvero confirmed the entry of Tamayo and Abadiano to the program, saying they will be an integral part of the Fighting Maroons for seasons to come.

“Six of our players graduated last season and we have five more players who have just one playing year left,” Uvero said.

“These two talents will help us secure our basketball future. We hope they will be model student-athletes of UP.”

The duo is expected to make an immediate impact with the 6-foot-8 Tamayo bringing impressive credentials, including the Finals MVP honor in Season 82, where he averaged 12.6 points and 10.4 rebounds.

Tamayo will major in sports science, while Abadiano is taking a tourism course at State U.

Quiambao, a mythical five member last season, believes the move to La Salle is the best fit for him as a player and as a student.

“I think I will really grow as a player at La Salle,” said Quiambao.