Landyn Jumawan’s journey from Hawaii to España gave him little time to adjust to his new surroundings, but it did not take long for the University of Santo Tomas to welcome him with open arms.
While the transition has not been easy, the one-and-done NCAA Division I talent from Northwestern State has gradually settled into his new role with the Growling Tigers.
Part of that adjustment has involved shifting from primarily playing as a guard to developing his game as a forward under head coach Pido Jarencio.
“It’s just that the coaches in UST are very welcoming. Me just coming in they allowed me just to play my game. Everybody just came to me, and like I said before, with open arms and allowed me just to play my game,” the 6-foot-4 wing said.
“That’s just the culture and family we have in UST, and I’m just thankful they understand. I chose UST, and they got me. Just gonna make the most of it, you know, just coming in every day and being the older guy.”
Jumawan played a key role in the Growling Tigers’ 86-85 victory over the FEU Tamaraws on Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum, finishing with 18 points, three rebounds, and two assists to breathe new life into UST’s Final Four campaign.
The victory lifted the Growling Tigers to fifth place, where they are now tied with the Ateneo Blue Eagles at identical 5-6 records.
With his time in España rapidly winding down, Jumawan is determined to make the most of his remaining collegiate stint, not only for himself but also for the continued success of the UST men’s basketball program.
(C) UAAP Season 89 Media Team
“Just trying to pass on the knowledge and everything that I’ve been through; that I’ve experienced. Just pass it on to my teammates, just showing up every single day, whatever we do.”
As the Growling Tigers continue their push for a postseason berth in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament, Jumawan is also mindful that life after college is fast approaching.
He made no secret of his plans beyond the collegiate ranks, with his sights set on the upcoming PBA Draft.
For now, however, the 23-year-old remains focused on one goal: bringing a championship to España.
“Yes, after, you know, PBA, that’s the plan next, but right now I’m just trying to focus on the UAAP season, and I wanna win the championship,” he shared.
“Whatever happens after that happens. My focus right now is just on the UAAP season, one game at a time. That’s where my mind is at right now.”
One of the biggest reasons behind his positive outlook is the unwavering support of the Thomasian faithful.
Despite the Growling Tigers’ turbulent campaign, UST’s fiercely loyal student body and alumni base have continued to rally behind the team. Jumawan said their support is among the biggest reasons he has enjoyed his time in España.
“It’s just the UST community, all the fans supporting you, you know, when we were down. We were on a losing streak, but they still came out supporting us; they’re cheering us on,” he said.
“That’s probably one of the best chants I’ve heard, the ‘Go, USTE.’ Anytime I hear it, it’s just amazing. My girlfriend, when she came, she’s been singing that chant every single time. I just love the community, just everything.”
