Despite being the new kid on the block, Jid Locsin has taken on a significant role in National University Nazareth School’s title quest in the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ Basketball Tournament.
The 5-foot-9 guard, who transferred from Huasiong College of Iloilo a year ago, has started every game for the Bullpups so far.
Admittedly, the soft-spoken guard from La Carlota City acknowledges that playing in Manila has been a big change.
“Malaki yung pinagkaiba ng laro dito sa Manila pero sabi ng coaches, huwag ko isipin na bago ako,” he shared.
“Wala naman pong pressure kasi eto naman yung pinag-ensayuhan ko. Lagi rin ako tinutulungan ng mga kuya ko.”
So far, the 18-year-old floor general has delivered on his promise, averaging 6.0 points, 5.78 rebounds, 4.56 assists, and 1.78 steals per game.
His performance has been reminiscent of a NUNS legend who suited up for the Bullpups just two years ago — UAAP Season 85 Boys’ Basketball MVP Reinhard Jumamoy.
Jumamoy, who now plays for the Bulldogs, continues to follow the Bullpups’ journey and often drops by during practice, according to Bullpups head coach Kevin De Castro.
“Si Reinhard sa practice, lagi niya nakikita. At least, kahit papano, naga-guide sila,” said De Castro. “Lagi niya sinasabi na hindi kayo basta point guard at kailangan niyo pagalingin ang mga kasama niyo. Hindi man sila nag-eensayo as a whole, naga-guide naman sila.”
Locsin has taken Jumamoy’s advice to heart.
“Sa ensayo, lagi niya ako sinasabihan na huwag ko isipin na mag-score. Tulungan ko yung teammates ko dapat sa paghanap sa kanila at sa hustle,” said Locsin.
Currently, the Bullpups are undefeated with a 9-0 record in the tournament.
Although he wasn’t part of the NUNS team that finished second last season, Locsin is well aware of the heartbreak. This fuels his motivation to help his seniors secure a championship before they move on to the collegiate ranks.
“Masakit yung pagkatalo nila last year. Yun yung motivation na binigay ni Coach Kev sa akin. Kailangan makatulong ako palagi sa kanila,” he shared.
