OUT. Despite being cleared of accusations of drug use that led him being initially removed from the team, Ricci Rivero bade farewell to La Salle. Dennis Jerome Acosta/Dugout Philippines (file) |
By Kevin Estrada
MANILA--After months of speculation due to his exit from the team spitfire swingman Ricci Rivero announced that he will be leaving La Salle and the Green Archers, dealing the nine-time UAAP champions a massive blow heading into season 81.
As if the troupe of Taft Avenue are left reeling after the departure of head coach Aldin Ayo and reigning MVP Ben Mbala, the exit of their second-leading scorer was another huge dent for coach Louie Gonzales on their build-up to the next UAAP cage wars after starting 2018 on the wrong foot by bowing out winless in the PCCL Elite 8.
All good things come to an end. Thank You to the La Sallian community for the support you've given me. The Animo spirit will always be with me. Its now time to move forward🏀🤘🏻— Ricci Rivero (@RicciRivero06) April 5, 2018
"All good things come to an end," as he tweeted, ending all doubts on his expulsion from the varsity squad along with his brother Prince and Brent Paraiso on drug use allegations, despite posting breakout numbers on his sophomore season which ended in them being dethroned by Ateneo in a three-game championship thriller last year.
The former Greenhills standout averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds and almost 2 assists per outing this year that copped him both the Most Improved Player plum and a spot in the all-UAAP team.
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