In his final year at Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Paolo Javillonar is leaving no stone unturned, including a significant transformation of his physique.
Javillonar, a 6-foot-6 bruiser, has made a notable change in preparation for his senior year. Last Tuesday, he made his NCAA Season 100 debut as a leaner version of himself.
In his effort to shed weight, Javillonar has drastically cut down on carbs – particularly rice – and invested in a more disciplined nutrition regimen.
“Nagbawas ako ng rice every meal. Nagwe-whey din ako, creatine, whey, at banana. Nag-iinvest na ko sa nutrition,” he explained.
His dedication has paid off, with Javillonar dropping from 231 pounds to a leaner 205.
This weight loss has not only improved his agility but also contributed to his standout performance.
In the Knights’ 86-79 victory over the Arellano Chiefs, he recorded a career-high 28 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, leading his team to their second win of the season.
(C) NCAA Images
The adjustments in his diet and training are part of a broader effort to adapt to new coaching and systems.
“Off-season, siyempre bagong coach, bagong sistema. So nagpapayat ako para maging fit sa sistema. Yung ininject ni coach (Allen Ricardo) na sistema, talagang ina-absorb lang namin,” Javillonar said.
His commitment to fitness was further sparked by his PBA draft experience.
“Nag-start ako (magpapayat) yung na-draft ako sa PBA. Iba na yung labanan dito. Kelangan dispilinado ka. Trabaho na yun e. Yun yung inisip ko. Kung gusto ko ng pagbabago, kailangan magsimula sa sarili ko,” he added.
As he approaches the final four months of his time at Intramuros, Javillonar is determined to maximize his remaining college experience.
His efforts are not only aimed at showcasing his abilities for Letran and his upcoming transition to Converge but also for his future career.
“Pag sinabi mong Letran, mataas ang level ng basketball. Dapat yung laruan namin, parang pro na,” shared the 19th overall pick in the 2024 PBA Draft.
“Dito muna focus ko. Ito yung magdidikta ng future ko.”
(With reports from Paolo Trinidad.)
