MANILA, Philippines – Dave Ildefonso confirmed through his social media accounts that he is leaving National University (NU) to return to Ateneo de Manila University.

A former Blue Eaglet who helped Ateneo win the juniors title in Season 80, Ildefonso had committed to the Bulldogs for college and was their No. 1 option in Seasons 81 and 82. As a sophomore, he averaged 17.14 points and 5.93 rebounds per game.

The Bulldogs failed to make the Final 4 in both seasons, however.

After weeks of speculation, Ildefonso confirmed on Instagram on Monday night that he is set to transfer schools.

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A post shared by Dave Ildefonso (@ildavefonso) on Jan 13, 2020 at 3:13am PST

"I would like to thank first and foremost Sir Manny Sy and Sir Hans Sy for all the support they gave me throughout my stay in NU. I would also like to thank the NU community for welcoming me with open arms and for allowing me to represent the school," said Ildefonso.

"A big part of my heart will always belong to the Bulldogs and the NU supporters who were with me and the team through the toughest of times… NU will always be a part of the person that I will become," he added.

As for his decision to return to Ateneo, Ildefonso said: "My biggest basketball dream has always been to represent the country in major international meets and I feel that this is the best path to that fulfillment of my dream."

The 19-year-old Ildefonso has represented the Philippines in several youth tournaments, including the 2019 FIBA U-19 Basketball World Cup wherein he averaged 16.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for Batang Gilas.

Ildefonso will have to sit out the upcoming UAAP season before suiting up for the Blue Eagles.

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