Gagate Returns to La Salle, Set to Join DLSU Green Archers

(Updated)

In a significant development ahead of UAAP Season 89, former blue-chip recruit Seven Gagate is making his way back to familiar ground. After a brief stint with the UP Fighting Maroons, Gagate has decided to return to La Salle and will join the DLSU Green Archers following a year of residency.

The move marks a homecoming for Gagate, who rose to prominence as a standout for the La Salle Green Hills Greenies in the NCAA juniors division. During his time at LSGH, he developed into one of the country’s top frontcourt prospects, earning Most Improved Player honors and a spot on the Mythical Team. Now, he will once again wear the green and white — this time at the collegiate level.

“I wish to respectfully announce that I will be going back to La Salle to play out my remaining UAAP men’s basketball eligibility. I also wish to thank UP for welcoming me from La Salle Greenhills and giving me the opportunity to break into the senior ranks with Coach Goldwyn Monteverde and my Fighting Maroon teammates,” he said in a statement.

Gagate’s return to La Salle also sets up a reunion with three of his former high school teammates, Luis Pablo, Santi Romero, and Ethan Alian. The trio played key roles for the Greenies and showed strong on-court chemistry during their high school finals run. With all four players now in the same system again, DLSU is betting on that familiarity to translate into cohesion and impact at the UAAP level.

Was reuniting with his teammates a factor?

“Of course, that was a factor, but what I liked most, is what they offer me, and what they offer me is opportunity and confidence,” Gagate said in an exclusive interview.

What excites him the most?

“What excites me the most is the culture of La Salle. They want to win. And of course, Coach Topex and his program. I want to improve on myself. I want to be better as a person and player. My old teammates are there. The chemistry is there. The adjustment won’t be so big.”

Was Renren Ritualo being part of the coaching staff a factor in his decision?

“That was a factor because we know Coach Renren was our coach in high school. I want to play again like I did back then,” Gagate said.

At UP, Gagate saw limited action due to injury and roster depth but showed flashes of promise during preseason tournaments. His decision to transfer offers a clearer path forward, with the opportunity to play a more central role in La Salle’s frontcourt rotation.

The Green Archers have been steadily rebuilding around young talent in recent years. Adding Gagate gives them another piece with size, experience, and long-term potential. Standing at 6-foot-7, he brings length and interior presence, both of which will be valuable as the team prepares for future runs.

Gagate will be eligible to play in UAAP Season 89 in 2026, giving him two full years to suit up for the Green Archers. While he sits out the upcoming season due to residency requirements, he is expected to train with the team and integrate into their system ahead of his debut.

For La Salle, this move is more than just a roster boost — it’s the return of one of its own, with unfinished business and a renewed mission in Taft.

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