Here’s The Reason Why Jared Bahay Joined Nike
Jared Bahay enters his sophomore season with the Ateneo Blue Eagles, unlatching the Three Stripe armour, revealing a bold Swoosh underneath. The 20-year-old joins his fellow #BEBOB (Blue Eagle Band of Brothers) in representing the university sponsor, the sole Asian institution included in Jordan Brand’s “Family of College Program.”
For Bahay, adidas remained a constant variable throughout his late high school to early college days, and departing wasn’t easy. During his tenure, he claimed back-to-back (2022, 2023) CESAFI High School Most Valuable Player honors and championships with the Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, becoming the first non-UAAP/NCAA cager to be recognized as the NBTC’s No. 1 ranking.
“Switching from Adidas to Nike was not an easy decision. It took time to come to terms with the change, especially since I had built a strong relationship with adidas. Their products have always been excellent, and I’m truly grateful for their support throughout the years.” Bahay tells ALL-STAR Magazine.
He adds: “I want to sincerely thank adidas, especially during pivotal moments in my journey. Their support has played a big part in my growth, and I will always be grateful for that.”
Turning over a new leaf
With a reconstructed Blue Eagle roster and a spotlight brighter than ever before, Bahay regards his partnership with Nike as a means of alignment with his Atenean brethren. He turns over a new leaf with a new outfitter, hopeful for a Final Four (and championship) bid in his crosshairs.
“It was important for me to stay in sync with them, both in terms of performance and team unity. I’m excited about this new chapter and look forward to working with Nike moving forward,” he continues.
Before committing to adidas, he represented the Philippines during Batang Gilas’ U‑16 and U‑18 campaigns, posting averages of 13.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg, and 4.8 apg at the U‑16 Asian Championship with his trusted Nike Zoom Freak 4 “Greek Coastline” and the Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Challenge Red All-Star” on foot.
Currently, Sabrina Ionescu’s Nike Sabrina 2 silhouette and the Air Jordan 39 remain favorites for the Ateneo Blue Eagle facilitator.
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