Mark Llemit, Jun Melecio commit to UST

Jun Melecio and Mark Llemit are joining UST's retooled squad. 
By Stewart Tan

MANILA—The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers have bolstered their backcourt with the acquisition of Tiger Cubs star Mark Llemit and Jun Melecio.

The commitment of the Laak, Davao de Oro-native Llemit and Valencia, Bukidnon-native Melecio was formalized on Thursday afternoon.

The 6-foot-3 Llemit said he did not think twice of staying yellow despite receiving feelers from other colleges.

"Sobrang excited ako kasi dito ako nagsimula. Gusto ko kung saan ako nagsimula, doon din ako sa next level," said the 18-year-old Llemit.

Llemit had averages of 16.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.5 steals in 28 minutes as he led the Tiger Cubs to a Final Four stint in UAAP Season 85 Juniors tournament.

Melecio, a former De La Salle Zobel standout, also opted to join the Growling Tigers, differing from the path of his elder brother and now Converge FiberXers guard Aljun Melecio.

"Gagawin ko lahat dito. Kung paano ko minahal yung La Salle, ganoon din yung nafi-feel ko sa UST. Kaya motivated ako na gawin yung best ko to help UST win as much games as possible," Jun said.

The 6-foot Jun is coming off a solid run for La Salle Zobel where he posted 8.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.2 steals in 20 minutes.

Growling Tigers head coach Pido Jarencio, for his part, said the commitments of Llemit and Melecio is a welcome development to the rebuilding UST squad.

"Exciting para sa amin yung addition nitong dalawang rookies. Mas lalalim yung guard rotation namin at mas titindi yung competition dito," said Jarencio.

Both are eligible to play for UAAP Season 86 and will have their full five playing years.

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