Bahay (Shoulder) Avoids Surgery, Eyes Return in UAAP Season 88

Ateneo Blue Eagles rookie guard Jared Bahay remains questionable for the team’s upcoming UAAP Season 88 matchup against the NU Bulldogs on Saturday, October 18, as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury sustained during the triple-overtime loss to UST.

Bahay has not participated fully in team practices and is still wearing a shoulder sling as part of his recovery process, according to a source. While no surgery will be required, the specific nature of the injury has not been disclosed publicly. What is known is that Bahay will need rehabilitation and is expected to return this season, pending medical clearance.

The injury occurred during Ateneo’s marathon game against UST, in which Bahay delivered a strong performance — posting 17 points and 6 assists — before sitting out the entire third overtime period due to pain in his shoulder. After the matchup at the Blue Eagle Gym, Bahay said he chose not to return in order to prioritize his long-term health, noting that playing through the pain might have aggravated the injury.

Ateneo team manager Epok Quimpo confirmed that the rookie guard is undergoing rehab and that his availability for the NU game remains uncertain. The coaching and medical staff appear to be taking a cautious approach to avoid any setbacks that could affect Bahay’s role later in the season.

Despite the setback, Bahay has shown poise and maturity throughout his UAAP sophomore campaign, quickly establishing himself as a key piece in Ateneo’s rotation and a go-to option in the clutch. His absence, if confirmed for Saturday, would be a significant loss for the Blue Eagles, who are aiming to regain momentum in the tightly contested Season 88 after dropping their last two games.