Iris Leal Commits to Ateneo Blue Eaglets, Following Brother’s Path

Ateneo’s high school basketball program may soon add another Leal to its roster.

Sixteen-year-old guard Iris Leal has committed to join the Ateneo Blue Eaglets program, continuing a family connection to the school that already includes his older brother, UAAP Boys’ Basketball player Jay-M Leal.

Standing 6-foot-3 and entering Grade 11, Iris is expected to have two years of eligibility at the high school level before moving on to college basketball. He previously played for New Life School in Cavite and has also appeared in grassroots and club competitions, including games featured in Milcu Got Skills tournaments and youth leagues around Cavite.

For Iris, the decision to join Ateneo was deeply personal.

“Dahil gusto kong sundan ang yapak ng kuya ko at mapalawak pa aking kakayahan at magkaroon ng tamang mindset sa paglalaro ng basketball,” he said.

The younger Leal is primarily a shooting guard and is known for his scoring ability, particularly from the midrange area. At 6-foot-3, he brings size to the perimeter, a trait that has become increasingly valuable in modern guard play.

Despite his offensive strengths, Iris says his focus right now is on improving other parts of his game.

“Gusto kong iimprove sa game ko ay ang aking mental na abilidad at maging mahusay na defender,” he said.

The move to Ateneo places him in a competitive development environment that has produced several UAAP standouts over the years. The Blue Eaglets program, now coached by former Blue Eagle champion Bacon Austria, is known for emphasizing fundamentals, discipline, and preparation for the collegiate level, making it a common pathway for players who hope to compete in the UAAP.

Iris’ older brother Jay-M Leal is one of the recognizable names in Ateneo’s high school basketball program. The 6-foot-6 forward from Cavite has been part of the Blue Eaglets’ lineup in the UAAP Boys’ Basketball tournament and recently committed to continue his basketball career with Ateneo at the collegiate level.

Naturally, comparisons between the two brothers are likely to follow. Iris, however, is approaching the situation with perspective.

“Yes, pero kung di ko man ma-achieve yung mga nagawa niya nung nasa HS pa siya, I know that Lord has a better plan for me,” he said.

For now, Iris is focused on growth as he prepares for the next stage of his basketball journey. With his size, scoring touch, and two full years of high school eligibility ahead, he will have time to develop within Ateneo’s system while carving out his own identity on the court.