The Ateneo Blue Eaglets have recently been crowned the new champions of the UAAP Juniors Division.
In the deciding winner-take-all Game 3 against the NU Bullpups on Friday, Ateneo's big three of Kai Sotto, SJ Belangel, and Dave Ildefonso all notched double-figures to lead the victory for the Eaglets.
Kai Sotto, the 7-foot-1 budding star, has made headlines all throughout the season not just because of his sheer height, but also his stellar play that eventually earned him the Finals MVP trophy. Meanwhile, star point guard SJ Belangel was equally superb for Ateneo in their title run with his daredevil drives and pin-point passing.
But Ateneo also had a key contributor in their titanic clash with NU. Dave Ildefonso, son of legendary PBA star Danny Ildefonso, also deserves credit for his consistent play. A Mythical Five member this season, Dave showed that he was just as good as any other high school player in the country.
"I'm so happy!" Ildefonso gushed, offering the championship to his teammates, as well as former Eaglets who helped him throughout his high school career. "I think this is a fitting ending for them (former teammates) and for us."
Dave's father Danny is, of course, no stranger to Filipino basketball fans. Danny is a household name that resonates well with PBA diehards most particularly to the San Miguel Beermen faithful where he built his legacy. Danny was a two-time MVP and an eight-time champion in his illustrious 18-year PBA career. The man affectionately known as 'Lakay' actually started his coaching career with the Blue Eaglets as an assistant. Currently, he is an assistant coach to the Alaska Aces as well as the NU Bulldogs.
Dave meanwhile is the second Ildefonso to play for Ateneo high school. Three years ago, older brother Shaun suited up for the Eaglets before moving on to the college ranks. Shaun spent one year with Ateneo before moving on to NU with his father.
Dave, a graduating senior, now faces a tough decision where he plans to take his amateur career.
"I'll take a few days. By the end of March, I'll have a decision where I'm going," Dave humbly shared.
Dave can either continue his career as an Atenean or move to NU to be with his dad and older brother, or he can even choose elsewhere. Unlike his father Danny who built his game with impeccable post moves, Dave operates mostly on the perimeter. He's a versatile swingman standing 6-foot-3 who can create his own shot or find open teammates.
"Of course I thought about the Teng brothers who were opponents," mentioned Dave, who was recalling brothers Jeron and Jeric who played for different schools in the UAAP.
But the younger Ildefonso is also thinking about the alternative, "Sometimes I think about three Ildefonsos in one team," he said. "I'm weighing that out and I'm almost to a decision."
Whichever school Dave decides; the high school standout is definitely sure about one thing.
"I still want to follow his footsteps (Danny), but I want to carve my own path," he proudly said.