San Sebastian College-Recoletos has secured arguably its biggest recruit in recent memory.
Mark Esperanza, a standout guard from the Gilas Boys program and a member of the UAAP Season 87 Mythical Team, is transferring from Adamson University to join San Sebastian.
The 5-foot-11 playmaker officially committed to the school on Thursday evening at Red Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, located at Winford Hotel and Casino in Santa Cruz, Manila.
“We’re extremely happy to have Mark’s commitment,” said San Sebastian team booster Jackson Chua, also the owner of Red Dynasty.
“He’s not your typical recruit—he’s the top point guard in his class. Having him gives us a huge boost of confidence as we move forward with our program.”
Esperanza’s high school journey took him from UP Integrated School to Arellano High School in Grade 9 before settling at Adamson University, where he flourished over the past two years.
In his Grade 10 season during UAAP Season 87, he posted impressive averages of 16.64 points, 5.79 assists, 4.93 rebounds, and 1.57 steals, helping steer the Baby Falcons to a fourth-place finish.
Now 18 years old, Esperanza will suit up for the Staglets, who finished 8th in NCAA Season 100 with a 3-6 record.
Taking the helm for the Staglets in NCAA Season 101 is Chelito Caro, who replaced Juan Miguel Martin.
Caro is a former assistant of Goldwin Monteverde during their days at NU Nazareth School.
Esperanza still has two years of eligibility left in the Grand Old League.