Eagles boost stock as Tenorio stays

Norman Black’s prayers were answered yesterday when LA Tenorio decided against turning pro this year.

This means that Tenorio, a flashy point-guard and one of the most sought after amateurs today, will stay on with the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP.

This will be Tenorio’s fifth and final year in the collegiate league. This will also be his last chance to win another title with Ateneo which he helped win the 2002 title.

Tenorio said it wasn’t an easy decision to make.

"I thought about it for a month. The PBA was an option but there’s also my loyalty to my school," said Tenorio who was with his parents Sunday evening when he made the final decision.

"Coach Norman also convinced me to stay. He asked me to give him a chance to handle me for a year. I think we (at Ateneo) have a better chance this year," he added.

Black was named the new Ateneo coach last week and after accepting the post that he’s hoping and praying that Tenorio would stay on with Ateneo.

"I’ve prayed for that during Holy Week," said Black, who’s taking over Sandy Arespacochaga, now the team’s assistant coach.

"And once that happens, it gives me a much better chance of winning. That’s for sure," added Black who joined Ateneo last year as team consultant.

"I’m happy with my decision although there’s a big pressure on me now that I’ve decided to stay. I know I have to work harder but I also need the cooperation of my teammates so it would be easier for me," he added.

The deadline for the filing of applications for the PBA draft in August is drawing nearer – May for local-based talents and June for Fil-foreigners.

While Tenorio decided to stay in the UAAP, La Salle’s Marc Cardona has decided to join the PBA.

Cardona’s decision to leave La Salle came as a surprise since he announced last October, after the Green Archers won their fifth UAAP crown in seven years — all under coach Franz Pumaren.

Cardona’s decision also seemed to have caught Pumaren by surprise. But the veteran coach said he had no choice left but to respect Cardona’s decision.

Another sought-after player, FEU’s Arwind Santos, has yet to decide on whether to join the PBA or stay in the UAAP.

Will he do a Cardona or a Tenorio? The answer will be known soon.