Ateneo loses Belangel to Korean pro league

MANILA, Philippines — SJ Belangel, who hit the buzzer-beating triple that keyed Gilas Pilipinas’ memorable victory over South Korea in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers last year, has agreed to play for the Daegu Kogas in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).

The 22-year-old Belangel will become the first Filipino import to play in the KBL, which opens its new season in October.

Belangel’s decision to ply his trade in the KBL meant that he is foregoing his last two playing years with the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP.

The Blue Eagles lost Belangel barely four weeks after yielding the UAAP crown to the UP Fighting Maroons.

According to a report by Korean outlet Naver News, Belangel has verbally agreed to the terms pending the official contract signing.

Reports also said as part of the deal, Belangel, who admitted receiving other offers from Japan and Taiwan, can bring his family along with him once he starts playing in South Korea.

Belangel joins the growing list of Filipinos playing overseas, including Thirdy and Kiefer Ravena, Dwight Ramos and most recently Justine Baltazar in the Japan B. League.

Meanwhile, Ray Parks Jr. is staying put in the Japan B. League after signing a new deal with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins.

The Dolphins yesterday said the Filipino import inked a one-year contract extension following his huge role in their playoff run last season.