Irus Chua would be the first to admit that his life changed after that one fateful January day.
Back on January 29, 2023, the 5-foot-11 guard dropped 121 points in a Milcu X Gotskills game.
Since then, Chua has been playing under a microscope.
“Life has been great ever since that point. Since that day, I have become an even better basketball player, and I continue to improve through hard work and determination,” shared the 16-year-old standout out of Brent International School.
But it’s not just that game where Chua was able to raise his stock.
In National Basketball League-Pilipinas’ first conference for its under-16 division, Chua led Microsmith Elite to the championship while earning Finals MVP honors.
His standout performances have not gone unnoticed as he, along with De La Salle-Zobel’s Kieffer Alas and Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu’s Henry Suico, was called up to take part in the NBA Academy Asia Development Camp held in Singapore last May.
During the four-day event, the young Filipino stalwarts joined the 29 other elite Asian prospects in training and in competition.
Those four days were completely magical for Chua.
(C) NBA Philippines
“My experience at the NBA camp was unforgettable and incredibly fun. Not only did I have the opportunity to meet new people, but I also learned a lot from the players who participated in the camp,” gushed Chua.
“I believe the experience has helped me become a better person and a stronger leader for my team.”
Looking back, Chua could not help but be thankful to his support group for helping him reach to get there.
For every decision he made — both on and off the court, his parents were there to support him every step of the way.
“It is crucial for me to have my family’s full support in whatever I choose to do or plan for the future. My family has always been my number one supporter since I was very young, and I am truly grateful to have them be part of my journey every day,” he shared.
“Regular competition is essential because it boosts the confidence of players in similar situations and also helps them improve further,” continued Chua, expressing his gratitude to leagues like NBL-Pilipinas and Got Skills for giving not just him but every dreamer like him a platform to showcase their talent.
Now an incoming Grade 11 student, Chua has a big decision to make: Where will he commit to for senior high?
Well, he is taking his time before making the leap.
“Currently, I am undecided about which college I will attend, but I am planning to study here in the Philippines.”
