La Salle’s Aljun Melecio skips final playing year to join PBA Draft

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 27) — De La Salle University Green Archers veteran guard Aljun Melecio has opted to forego his final playing year in the UAAP to join the 2021 PBA Draft.

“There are just some things in life that we can’t control, and this was one of them. This was not the ending I expected for my time playing for the green and white. Being the team captain in my last playing year, I almost did not let go, but there are just some hard, but important decisions we must make,” he said in a post on his Instagram account.

“This is a painful announcement, but it is one I have to make: I am entering the 2021 PBA Draft,” he added.

The 22-year-old gunslinger from Valencia City, Bukidnon said he got the green light from the La Salle management to turn pro as the resumption of the UAAP season remains uncertain.

The UAAP has decided to cancel this year’s 83rd season, which was set to be hosted by La Salle, due to health and safety concerns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“From watching the Green Archers on TV when I was a kid in Bukidnon to eventually representing La Salle, holding the banner high and bright was a dream come true for me. I am beyond grateful to the Lasallian Community for giving me a chance to showcase my talents and enhance my skills. I appreciate the DLSU management and especially coach Derick for being honest and fair to his players. I also like to thank Boss Eduardo Cojuangco Jr., Boss Raffy Villavicencio, Boss Terry Capistrano, Justice Andres Reyes, Atty. Mans Carpio, Boss Eric Ongkuako, and Sir Quinito Henson for their unwavering support,” Melecio said.

After graduating high school from De La Salle Zobel, Melecio won the UAAP Season 79 Rookie of the Year award in 2016. He also played a vital role in DLSU’s title run that same year.

“From Zobel to Taft, I always bleed green. I will always be a Lasallian and I hope to keep making the Lasallian Community proud as a professional basketball player. #11 Signing Off,” he ended his post.

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