A Red Cub Turning into a Red Lion: Justine Sanchez Stays in San Beda

What was supposed to be a perfect season for the San Beda Red Lions turned out to be a big disappointment as the Red Lions failed to complete the job, losing in the NCAA Finals against none other than their bitter rivals, the Letran Knights who took home the championship after surviving a classic three-game series. 

Then, the disappointment turned to heartbreak as Evan Nelle, one of three Red Lions who were part of Season 95's Mythical Team, stunned everyone with his decision to leave San Beda and move to Taft Avenue where he will be suiting up for the De La Salle Green Archers in the UAAP starting next year. Also gone is Donald Tankoua so that's a big void to be filled. 

Fortunatelty, some of San Beda's high school stars are staying in San Beda to continue wearing the red and white jersey of the Red Lions. Among those who will be growing up from being a cub to a full-grown lion is Justine Sanchez who has captured the attention of pundits due to his versatility. 

A member of the juniors Mythical Team last year while helping the San Beda Red Cubs win their first championship since 2015, Sanchez will provide the energy as well as the tireless effort that he shows every single game as he averaged 13 points and 8 rebounds in his final year in the juniors' division. And with the seniors' team being coached by one Boyet Fernandez, San Beda fans can expect Justine Sanchez's impact to be felt when Season 96 of the NCAA kicks in this year.

And the better news is: Justine Sanchez isn't alone in deciding to becoming a full-grown Red Lion.

Last year's juniors' Finals MVP, Rhayyan Amasali along with Tony Ynot decided to remain in San Beda to play for the Red Lions. How good are they?

Amasali for one, averaged 16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and close to 2 steals per contest last season. No wonder why he was the Finals MVP. 

Tony Ynot also had a stellar final season with the Red Cubs as he averaged 12 points and 4 rebounds per contest.

While the three will need to fight for the spots in Boyet Fernandez's line-up, it's already a good thing that they decided to stay in San Beda and play for the seniors' team and for that, the future is already brighter for San Beda. 

Photo is from ABS CBN News