MANILA — Western Visayas Palarong Pambansa Mythical Team member Luke Rose is taking his talents to the NCAA juniors ranks after committing to Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite, giving the Junior Pirates another promising young playmaker for future campaigns.
The 16-year-old guard from Pavia, Iloilo, will transfer from St. Roberts International Academy Panda Rockets-Elite Lab and enroll at LPU-Cavite for his senior high school studies, where he is expected to bolster the Junior Pirates’ backcourt beginning NCAA Season 102.
Rose’s arrival adds another highly regarded prospect to the rebuilding program of newly appointed head coach Chico Lanete, who sees significant potential in the young Ilonggo standout.
“Si Luke ay isang batang player na kitang-kita na ang maturity niya. Galing siya sa isang magandang programa, kaya nakikita namin ang malaking potensyal niya hindi lang bilang scorer, kundi bilang isang leader. Sa LPU, gusto namin siyang tulungan na mag-improve both on and off the court,” said Lanete.
Rose emerged as one of the country’s most promising young guards during the 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
Despite standing just 5-foot-4, he turned heads with his leadership and playmaking abilities, spearheading Western Visayas’ campaign and earning a coveted spot in the tournament’s Mythical Team.
LPU officials said former Pirates guard Spencer Pretta played an important role in helping Rose make the transition to the Cavite-based program and introducing him to the university’s culture.
“Spencer played a big role in helping Luke see what LPU stands for. We are grateful for alumni like him who continue to give back by guiding young athletes toward the right path,” said LPU athletics director Dr. Allan Layco.
“At LPU, we don’t just build players—we build students anchored on love of God, discipline, and leadership, values that also align with the Rose family,” he added.
Rose is expected to begin his NCAA juniors career in Season 102 and will have two years of eligibility with the Junior Pirates, providing the program with a talented floor general as it looks to strengthen its future roster./PN
