THE Blue Eagles’ wings have been clipped even before they could soar for redemption in the next UAAP cage wars.
Forward Kai Ballungay has chosen to forego his final year with Ateneo to turn pro in a big blow to the Eagles’ bid to regain lost glory.
“With strong feelings of excitement, I wish to share that I will be embarking on the next chapter of my journey, transitioning to the world of professional basketball,” Ballungay said in a lengthy letter on Instagram last Monday night. “The decision to pursue this path was not made lightly whatsoever and I’m glad to bring with me the invaluable experiences and lessons I have gained during my time at Ateneo.
“Through victory and through defeat, the camaraderie we have forged through the countless hours of training have created lifelong memories that I will always cherish and hold on to for as long as I live. I am grateful to forever be part of the Blue Eagles Band of Brothers. I love you all so very much,” he added.
The 6-foot-7 Ballungay played a key role in the Katipunan-based five’s title conquest last year and led the team in scoring with 11.4 points, to go with 7.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists this season.
But Ateneo groped for form and wound up with a 7-7 slate after the eliminations before it hurdled Adamson University 70-48 to catch the last ride to the Final Four.
The Eagles fell to top seed and twice-to-beat University of the Philippines 46-57 in their semifinals duel.
Ballungay reserved his fondest gratitude to Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin.
“Thank you, coach Tab for everything. There are not enough words I can express in this letter to fully describe how thankful I am for you and for the time you have given me during my stay at Ateneo. Thank you for teaching me what it means to be a student of the game and for illustrating what true basketball is supposed to look and feel like,” Ballungay said.
“Thank you for being my biggest critic and for pushing me to be the best version of myself as a player and as a young man in society. Thank you for showing me what it takes to be a champion and how to be a man for others. With your guidance, I have discovered how much I didn’t know, how much! have learned along the way, and how much more I have to learn to be the best player I can be. I’m so blessed to have had the opportunity to play for you, love you coach.”
