By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Gilas Pilipinas’ youngest national team member Lebron Lopez is turning professional and will have the chance to show his full potential with the Overtime Elite League in the US.
Recently seen donning the Gilas uniform during the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, there was no doubt Lopez was one of the most talented players in the pool with the insane skillset he possesses at such a young age.
Lopez was a former member of the Ateneo Blue Eaglets and averaged an insane 16.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game in his lone stint there.
Standing at six-foot-six, the length and athleticism Lopez had coupled with his ball-handling skills made him an intriguing prospect as what he displayed during his high school year in Ateneo.
“I am humbled and grateful to Overtime Elite (OTE) for believing in me and helping me get closer to my dreams. I will work hard to live up to their faith. As OTE leadership said, I will be the first Filipino player to join them. It is an honor that I will not take for granted. I will not let our country down. I will work very hard to represent us well!” said the 18-year-old stalwart.
However, Lopez’s decision of turning professional will invalidate his collegiate eligibility for the Philippines.
Lopez can still return to Gilas Pilipinas but is no longer allowed to play for any UAAP or NCAA teams under his college years.
