By: Leiniel Santos
Jhuniel Dela Rama refused to be overwhelmed by the heated Letran-San Beda rivalry and the tight NCAA Juniors Basketball Tournament Final Four race, instead rising to the occasion with a composed and commanding performance.
“‘Di po namin inisip ‘yun, nilagay lang po namin sila katulad ng iba naming kalaban. Sobrang saya po sa pakiramdam pero moving forward pa rin kami sa mga games namin,” the 19-year-old do-it-all forward from Ormoc City said.
The 6-foot-2 product of ACLC College of Ormoc delivered a stellar double-double, tallying 20 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists to lead the Squires past the Red Cubs, 71-64.
Following back-to-back losses against the Red Robins and Light Bombers, Letran has now built a three-game winning streak, improving to a 4-2 win-loss record and sharing second place with Mapua.
Dela Rama has been a pivotal force during their dominant run, consistently recording double-doubles in all three victories.
In their first win, he registered 14 points, 11 rebounds, and one assist.
Before their triumph over San Beda, he erupted for 18 points, 16 rebounds, and four assists against the Greenies, and chipped in 11 points and 10 rebounds versus the Brigadiers.
With his string of impressive performances, Dela Rama has firmly established himself as a vital piece for the Squires.
Their earlier defeats highlighted how Letran struggled to secure victories without his production.
Despite his contributions, Dela Rama acknowledged that he must maintain his consistency moving forward.
“Kailangan mas maging consistent po ako, and mas magtiwala sa teammate,” he said.
Letran head coach Willie Miller echoed Dela Rama’s sentiments, stressing that composure as there are just three more games left in the elimination round.
He reminded his players to set emotions aside and focus on executing their game plan.
“Ang [goal] lang is to control ‘yung iniisip nila na rivalry… Pag emotions na ‘yung nag-set in, nawawala sila sa focus kasi ang gusto hard na masyado. So try to control lang na magawa nila ‘yung ginagawa sa practice,” he said.
