ROMERO TO PLAY COLLEGE BALL IN SPAIN

By Jay Leon Guerrero

Jamel “Melo” Romero signed his commitment letter today to play basketball at the College of International Studies (CIS) in Madrid, Spain.

Romero, a 2024 graduate from Father Duenas Memorial School, will leave on September 5th to meet his new coach and team in Spain.

“It’s been a good journey, and I learned so much from this program (FD),” said Romero. “Everyone here was so welcoming, and this is a brotherhood and family I will have forever.”

Romero was a stat stuffer for head coach Jimmy Yi’s program, averaging a double-double for the season in points and rebounds. Melo helped the Friars win another IIAAG championship and was instrumental in the Champion vs. Champion game against the GW Geckos.

At 6’0″ and 170 lbs., Melo said there would be adjustments to his game, like other players from Guam who moved up to the collegiate level. “I’m going to have to prove myself as a high-level guard and improve on every aspect of the game,” said Romero. “I’m going to be eager to learn and improve my basketball IQ.”

“It’s been an exciting journey for him,” said Emily Romero, Melo’s proud mom. “I’m glad we made that choice to come to FD. Everyone was so welcoming, and it’s something we will keep close to us. We are now excited for his next steps,” added Emily Romero.

“Melo was a great addition to our school. He had to adapt to the program, but he made the sacrifice,” said coach Yi. “He’s a changed man, and we are grateful to produce another signing coming from the school.”

Melo said that aside from basketball, he will be studying in the field of business and finance. “I’m interested in that field of finance and I want to study online marketing and trading.”

Melo has been active all summer while on Guam and will go straight into basketball for the winter season. Good luck, Melo!