FROM an unknown cager playing in division meets in San Juan, Terrence Fortea has become one of the top young guards in the country.
Currently playing for National University Bullpups in the UAAP, the 16-year-old Fortea has a national team stint under his belt as he saw action for Batang Gilas in last year’s Seaba Under-16 Championship.
Years ago, Fortea was a member of the San Juan Elementary School basketball team in the San Juan division meet when he turned heads in a game against Xavier School.
A scout from Xavier was impressed with Fortea, but since he is ineligible to play for the school, the person contacted NU instead.
“Division meet, kalaban namin Xavier, nakita ako. Bawal ako maglaro sa Xavier kaya pinapunta ako sa NU,” said Fortea, who has been playing basketball since he was in Grade Three.
Since then, Fortea has flourished with NU in age-group tournaments that led to him being included in last season’s UAAP lineup and a spot with the eventual 2017 Seaba U-16 champion Batang Gilas.
”Sobrang sarap kasi ni-represent ko ‘yung country. Sobrang bihira ‘yung ganung opportunity,” said the 5-foot-10 guard.
This season, Fortea is averaging 12.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, while shooting a team-best 19 triples in the first round of the season. The Bullpups are currently in second with a 6-1 record.
“Siguro magiging challenging pa rin basta mag-stick pa rin sa game plan. Basta magiging ready lang kami,” said Fortea.
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