Even with the 83rd season cancellation of University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws have created more depth to their lineup with recent additions of standouts from FEU-Diliman Baby Tamaraws’ Patrick Sleat and Jorick Bautista.

Sleat and Bautista helped the Baby Tams finish in second place during the season 82 of UAAP juniors basketball tourney where they faced the undefeated Nazareth School of National University (NSNU) Bullpups in the Finals. 

This was reported by Rappler last January 23, through an interview with FEU Athletic Director Mark Molina.

Molina admitted that Sleat has a “good shot” to be included in the final lineup, while Bautista has to be with “Team B for a year, maybe even two.”

“He’s a very good defender. His shot is developing; every year, it’s improved. He’s quite athletic and strong,” Molina told Rappler.

19-year-old Sleat was praised for being an Alec Stockton-Ron Dennison hybrid but with better offensive skills.

The point guard spots are currently occupied by L-Jay Gonzales and Royce Alforque, who also came from the same program.

The five-foot-11 guard is going to play behind Gonzales and Alforque as this was the situation they faced back in high school, the situation is nothing new as Molina noted.

The Morayta-based squad holds the longest active Final Four appearance in the league since season 76. Looks like this streak will continue as Sleat and Bautista will be vital to the team for seasons to come.

They will also be joined by Joshua Ramirez from Colegio de San Juan de Letran (CSJL), another high school standout that FEU managed to secure his commitment last October 2020. 

-Aimerose C. Atienza

(Photos courtesy of The UAAP)