Soulemane Chabi Yo leaves UST Growling Tigers

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines’ (UAAP) Season 82 men’s basketball Most Valuable Player will no longer see action once the league restarts next year.

According to former University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers’ head coach Aldin Ayo, towering Beninese center Soulemane Chabi Yo decided to forego his final playing year with the school and will take his talents to Europe.

“We are happy for Chabi. From a displaced player in 2018, he was able to not only help us reach the UAAP Finals, but also make a name for himself,” Ayo told sports website Tiebreaker Times in an interview.

One of the vital pieces during UST’s Season 82 championship appearance run, Chabi Yo quickly made a name for himself and established his dominance with his efficient perimeter shooting and reliable post-play.

During his tenure with the Growling Tigers, Chabi Yo averaged 17.44 points, 14.33 rebounds, and 1.39 assists per game.

Coach Ayo also added that Chabi Yo already got an offer with a Division 4 team in a Spanish basketball league and already signed a contract.

Meanwhile, current UST head coach Jinino Manansala confirmed that former NU Bulldog Adama Faye from Senegal will be filling the spot of Chabi Yo in the roster.