Konov makes strong DLSU even stronger
THE STRONG just got stronger as reigning UAAP champion De La Salle University (DLSU) secured the services of Gilas Pilipinas youth standout Alex Konov.
The Filipino-Bulgarian forward from New Jersey in the United States announced his decision to join the Green Archers, who are in the thick of the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup campaign before flying to Japan for training camp.
“I am extremely excited to announce my commitment to De La Salle University Manila in the Philippines,” posted Mr. Konov on his official social media account. “I want to thank all my coaches and trainers that have helped me along the way. I also want to thank my parents for everything they have sacrificed over the years. Big thanks to Coach Topex (Robinson) and his staff for the opportunity, can’t wait to get to work. Go Green Archers.”
The 6-foot-7 Mr. Konov just graduated from high school, making him eligible right away for De La Salle in the UAAP Season 87 this September.
He is best known for his Gilas performance in the FIBA U16 Asian Championship in 2022 in Doha, Qatar with averages of 10.0 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists.
Mr. Konov, with a maximum five-year playing eligibility, will join an already stacked La Salle unit led by reigning UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao and PBA D-League MVP Mike Phillips.
He will shore up the Green Archers’ future under the watch of Robinson after acquiring ace guards Jacob Cortez from San Beda, Kean Baclaan from National U, and former NCAA juniors MVP Luis Pablo from the University of the Philippines.
Cortez, Baclaan and Pablo will redshirt this season before being eligible in Season 88 as Robinson’s Green Archers look on course for UAAP dominance in the years to come after beating the equally stacked Fighting Maroons. to win Season 86. — John Bryan Ulanday