Romero resumes Green Archers roster quest with big performance in Cebu

Santi Romero —CONTRIBUTEDPHOTO

Santi Romero has long dreamed of earning the chance to prove himself in the UAAP.

A standout performance in Cebu may have strengthened his case.

The defensive-minded forward, who has been working his way back after injuries stalled his bid to crack the De La Salle Green Archers roster, anchored Phenom Bluefire’s relentless defense as it escaped host University of Cebu, 66-62, to capture the Sinag Liga Asya (SLA) Junior World Showcase 23-Under Championship on Sunday at the Cebu Coliseum.

Romero and teammate Mark Sarza, who was named Finals MVP, were both selected to the tournament Mythical Five after leading Phenom through the five-day competition.

Sarza powered the offense with 15 points and 16 rebounds, delivering key baskets and defensive stops down the stretch to fend off the Webmasters’ late rally.

Romero, meanwhile, embraced a role that rarely shows up in the box score.

The 6-foot-3 former Gilas Youth standout spent the tournament guarding the top gunners of the opponents, using relentless on-ball pressure, disciplined positioning and timely rotations.

His willingness to take on the toughest assignments made him a fan favorite throughout the tournament, where his hustle and energy consistently shifted momentum.

Defense has long been Romero’s calling card. During his stint with La Salle Green Hills in the NCAA juniors division, he finished second in the league in steals while also ranking among the team’s top rebounders.

The Cebu tournament was another step in Romero’s comeback after injuries derailed what looked like a clear path to the La Salle roster.

Now fully healthy, Romero hopes his latest showing will finally earn him a long-awaited opportunity to suit up in the UAAP this season.