RYAN Costelo has decided to take his act to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) instead of playing his final year with San Sebastian in the NCAA.
San Sebastian coach Egay Macaraya confirmed Costelo is no longer with the team, but said he gave his blessing for the playmaker's move to the MPBL.
Macaraya said it was also his suggestion to Costelo to play in the MPBL due to a pressing family matter.
“Pinayagan ko na ‘yun kasi graduating siya. Dalawang araw na siyang hindi nag-practice pero as I’ve said, pinapili ko na siya doon,” said Macaraya.
“Ako ang nagsabi sa kanya. Sabi ko, ‘Ryan, puwede ka na maglaro sa labas.’ Masyadong distracted siya. Hindi rin siya makaka-focus. Mas okay sa akin ‘yung desisyon niya,” he said.
Macaraya said he doesn’t know where Costelo is headed but sources said Costelo has already signed up with the Muntinlupa team.
Two San Sebastian players in Justin Mercado and Alvin Baetiong have also decided to play in the MPBL this year, while Renzo Navarro and Jayson David have transferred to Lyceum.
Costelo was one of the point guards in the rotation of the Stags, averaging 6.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in NCAA Season 93.
Costelo’s will be a great opportunity for his other point guards to step up, Macaraya said.
“Ang iniisip ko, mabigyan ko rin ng chance ‘yung mga bago kong point guards. Wala kasi kaming luxury katulad ng ibang schools. Ang sa akin, kung pupunta kayo sa amin, sigurado ako na gusto niyong maglaro. Magte-train na lang uli kami ng mga players,” Macaraya said.
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