Even if he was considered as the best point guard in the collegiate ranks, Jiovani Jalalon continues to strive for perfection.
Sunday afternoon, reports of his selection to the Star Hotshots proved to be true as the Cagayan de Oro-native was drafted by Star during the special Gilas Draft of the 2016 PBA Rookie Draft.
However, some reports contradicted the earlier reports, saying that Jalalon will join a loaded Ginebra line-up after a reported trade for fellow rookie Kevin Ferrer. The 24-year old though did not let it get to his head as he just wanted to be drafted.
“Hindi ko na inisip yun e. Ang nasa isip ko na lang talaga yung paano ako pupunta sa stage, kung ano man yung team na mapupuntahan ko, sabi ko okay lang, kung ano man yun,” he shared.
Relief set in for Jalalon once PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa announced his name on the podium. “Sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam kasi dati ito yung team na pinapanood ko talaga nung nandoon pa si Tim Cone kaya sobrang saya ko na kinuha nila ako,” said Jalalon, who was part of the NCAA Season 92 Mythical team.
Jalalon tough joins a loaded Star backcourt that includes Mark Barroca, RR Garcia, and recently-acquired Paul Lee – all of whom have been part of the Gilas program as well. The “Bus Driver” though plans on using this opportunity to absorb everything he can learn from the three.
“Kahit ang dami namin point guard, siguro kung lang yung ipapagawa sa akin ni coach gawin ko lang talaga,” the Gilas Pilpinas floor general said. “Marami akong gustong matutunan lalo na kay Mark Barroca, Paul Lee, kay RR Garcia.”
“Gusto ko makuha yung technique nila.”
