By: Kim Yoshi Espiritu
Jimboy Estrada during the game against LPU Pirates last October 5, 2024. Photo Courtesy: Maverick Rhoy De Vera.
A rusty performance is almost inevitable when a player sits out an entire game, whether due to injury or league restrictions. However, this logic seemed absent in Jimboy Estrada’s mechanics as he entered Letran's recent redemption match against the San Sebastian Golden Stags with full momentum.
The Letran Knights’ scoring machine made a loud statement with a dominant performance, exploding for a career-high 30 points, alongside seven rebounds and five assists.
In an exclusive interview, the Pangasinan-born gunner revealed his motivation going into the game:
"Gusto ko lang makabawi. Galing kami sa three-game losing streak, kailangan talaga namin makabawi at makabangon — kaya gusto ko makatulong sa team."
Throughout the NCAA Centennial Season Men's Basketball Tournament, Jimboy has faced the toughest competition of his career with confidence and tenacity, posting statistics worthy of Rookie of the Year and MVP consideration early in the first round.
His impressive performances have only heightened expectations, especially after his growth in the NAASCU that turned him into a rare breed of rookie MVPs. He emerged as the star for St. Clare College of Caloocan during their five-peat championship run.
Unfortunately, Jimboy is now ineligible to receive individual accolades due to a violation of tournament rules following an incident of physical contact with an official, which resulted in a one-game suspension. His squad's appeal for reconsideration was denied by NCAA Management Committee Chairman Hercules Callanta.
Looking ahead, despite this setback, the 22-year-old uncrowned king continues to display an exceptional level of basketball. While speculations cloud their ceiling as a team, one thing is certain: the future looks bright for Colegio de San Juan de Letran with the young guard at the helm.