By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The future is bright for the De La Salle Green Archers.
Right after legendary Derrick Pumaren took over head coaching duties for the green and white, the team continued to make off-season acquisitions despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
After getting the commitment of top-tier high school standouts both from the UAAP and the NCAA, the Green Archers will be reinforced by 6’8’’ Fil-Am brothers Michael and Benjamin Philips.
Michael was a dominant beast in his final playing year for Creekside High School in St. Johns, Florida, posting average numbers of 12.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, 1.7 dimes, 1.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks.
Meanwhile, his brother Benjamin, is also a reliable anchor underneath who graduated in Fairfield High School and focused on his business degree at the University of Miami in Oxford, Ohio.
“Michael and Benjamin bring a lot of energy, passion, intensity and hustle. They always go for the rebound and make sure to keep the ball alive. They are still projects in process with a huge upside and in God’s time will be a force in the UAAP,” said Pumaren.
The brothers can suit up for UAAP Season 83, forming a formidable squad together with Justine Baltazar, Brandon Bates, Amadou Ndiaye, Jonnel Policarpio, CJ Austria, Emman Galman, and Warren Calara.
