When it comes to Far Eastern University and its rookies in the UAAP Season 87 collegiate men’s basketball tournament, Veejay Pre has often been the standout performer.
However, this time, it was JR Pasaol who took center stage, leading the Tamaraws to a 65-54 victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The FEU-Diliman product posted career-highs in points and assists with 14 and six, respectively. He also grabbed seven rebounds and two steals, helping the Tamaraws secure their fourth win in six second-round games.
Despite Pre often being the one to shine, FEU head coach Sean Chambers emphasized the importance of Pasaol for both this season and the future.
“Since day one when I arrived here in April, honestly, Janrey has been our leader,” said the first-year coach, praising Pasaol’s leadership.
“Veejay gets the number, but Janrey is the one who’s kinda the general on the court. So when he’s playing well, like today, it’s just amazing to watch because he has such a great feel for the game,” he added.
Pasaol was also a key contributor to the Baby Tamaraws’ championship run during UAAP Season 85 in the high school boys’ division.
Beyond his on-court performance, Chambers also lauded Pasaol’s positive attitude, which has had a ripple effect on his teammates during both practice and games.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Janrey is absolutely a joy to coach because he loves the game. Every day we show up to practice, this is Janrey – he’s always the happiest, with a smile and excited to be there,” said Chambers, who transitioned from being a former PBA import to a coach.
Now regarded as the lead guard of this promising FEU squad, Pasaol expressed his gratitude to his senior teammates for helping him mature early in his collegiate career.
While Pasaol was known for his scoring prowess in high school, he has developed his playmaking skills, which are now helping drive the Tamaraws’ success.
“Nagpapasalamat ako kay Royce (Alforque) and Jorick (Bautista) kasi kumbaga nandiyan sila para gabayan ako lagi. Alam nilang ako na yung susunod sa mga point guard nila,” said Pasaol, who is the younger brother of University of the East great Alvin Pasaol.
His growth on the court has also been shaped by Coach Chambers’ disciplined approach, which has pushed him to work harder for his playing time, especially as a first-year player.
“Pasalamat ako kay Coach Sean kasi ako galing ako ng juniors, si Coach Sean, kinakausap niya si Coach Allan (Albano) about sa disiplina namin sa mga simpleng box-out,” he said.
“So doon ko pa rin ini-earn ‘yung minutes ko para sa kanya kasi every missed box out, labas ako kaagad sa kanya eh. So yun, kailangan lang namin i-grind as a team yun sa next game namin against UP.”
