By: Jerod Orcullo
The bloodline of former PBA enforcer Rudy Distrito lives on at University of the East.
Jax Distrito, a 6-foot-2 guard from Arellano University, has committed to the Red Warriors, following in the footsteps of his uncle Rudy, who starred for UE under coach Filo Pumaren from 1981 to 1983.
“I’m happy that I’ll be joining UE. It’s a dream come true, especially since my uncle Rudy played for the Red Warriors,” said the 20-year-old Jax, whose father Nixon was Rudy’s first cousin.
Nixon passed away in 2022, making this next step in Jax’s basketball career even more meaningful for the Distrito family.
Jax averaged 4.43 points and 2.0 rebounds in his Grade 12 season in the NCAA juniors division with the Braves
Despite modest numbers, he remained focused on development – a quality that caught the eye of UE’s program under head coach Chris Gavina.
“I’m thankful to Coach Chris Gavina and his coaching staff for giving me this opportunity, as well as to the UE athletic department,” Jax shared.
“I know I have to work hard and prove myself if I want to play for the team in UAAP Season 88.”
Distrito is represented by Icons Sports Management Services, the same agency behind standout athletes like College of St. Benilde’s SJ Moore and Paris Olympics-bound UE fencer Samantha Catantan.
“I’m grateful to Arellano for giving me a chance to improve, and I gave my best during the past three seasons in the NCAA,” he added.
