By: Leiniel Santos
Five years after Calvin Oftana left San Beda University to carve out a professional career, his presence is still felt within the school’s basketball program.
The former NCAA MVP, now a key player for TNT in the PBA, has quietly played a role in shaping the future of San Beda’s juniors team — one that includes 19-year-old MJ Vailoces.
Vailoces, a 6-foot-1 guard, took an unconventional route to join the Red Cubs.
Like Oftana, he hailed from Asian College in Dumaguete before making the jump to Manila.
It was a move he credits largely to the man who once dominated the same hardwood he now calls home.
“Ni-recommend po ako ng coach from Dumaguete (Michael Villahermosa), and then si Calvin po ‘yung tumulong sa’kin para makapasok ng Beda,” Vailoces shared.
Now in his Grade 12 year, Vailoces is making the most of the opportunity.
He has been a force for the Red Cubs, averaging 17.25 points, 8.75 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game — numbers that have helped San Beda climb to a 3-1 record, tied for the lead in the NCAA juniors division.
Though Oftana stands significantly taller at 6-foot-5, Vailoces has molded his playing style after him.
“Siguro katulad [niya] na catch and shoot na player, and also kapwa Bisaya,” he said, embracing the connection they share beyond just their roots.
But despite his early-season success, Vailoces refuses to be complacent.
His personal stats are secondary to the bigger goal of bringing a championship back to Mendiola — the Red Cubs’ first since NCAA Season 95.
“Masaya ako na nakuha ko ‘yung mga numbers na ‘yun pero di pa rin ako kontento… ‘Di naman ‘yun ‘yung goal ko, ang goal namin as a team is mag-champion.”
