NCAA Player Chad Gammad on Criticisms About his Relationship: ‘Can’t Really Do Anything About That’

Letran Knight Chad Gammad might be fending off controversies about his personal life, but the 18-year-old player says he’s choosing to tune out the noise and just be grateful for new opportunities coming his way.

Gammad said this during the signing of his new endorsement deal with Chinese sporting gear brand Anta on Wednesday (August 26). Anta signed the incoming sophomore to a multi-year contract alongside fellow hotshots Carl Manding of the University of Santo Tomas and Rachel Lacayanga of the University of the East.

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“I guess the age gap,” he told Esquire Philippines about what the public misunderstands about his romantic relationship with thirtysomething PBA courtside reporter Apple David. “People are not okay with that. Can’t really do anything about that. Just gotta ignore it. I feel like we just gotta tune that out.”

Gammad and David have been subjected to relentless social media attacks in recent weeks after they went public with their relationship, with criticisms directed not just at the huge age disparity but also accusations of unprofessionalism on the side of David, who is a well-known TV and events host besides being a courtside reporter for the country’s most high-profile professional basketball league.

But Gammad said he chooses to be grateful for the opportunity to be the new brand ambassador for a global athletic apparel brand.

“It feels great to be representing the brand,” he said. “Apple was actually the one who told me about it. I just felt great because I feel like all my hard work is being recognized.”

According to Mikko Abello, Anta marketing manager, he was convinced to sign Gammad when he saw him play during a pre-season tournament. “He’s really good, and he’s a good representative of the brand. That’s why we signed him and Carl and Rachel. We want to support them as they grow in their respective careers.”

Led by Gammad, Letran is expected to be a powerhouse in the upcoming NCAA season. While he’s still only in the beginning stages of his career, Gammad says he’s already eyeing bigger things in the future.

“My ultimate goal is to play professional anywhere,” he said. “It could be here with the PBA, or even abroad. As long as I get to play professional basketball.”