It is widely known that Jhon Canapi has emerged as a top prospect for University of Santo Tomas after making headlines in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament.
One of Canapi’s most impressive feats in his first-ever UAAP stint came through eight games when he reset the tournament scoring record by dropping 35 points in UST’s 100-77 victory over Ateneo on September 11, shattering the previous scoring record set by his own teammate, Andwele, who had scored 34 points against DLSZ on April 24, 2024.
In addition to this historic achievement, the 15-year-old combo guard ended the first round ranked fourth in the MVP race, tallying 85.286 statistical points based on averages of 23.71 points, 6.29 rebounds, 2.86 steals, and 1.86 assists per game.
However, Canapi remains focused on helping the Tiger Cubs secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four as they strive for their first-ever title in the tournament.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
His determination became evident on Wednesday morning when Canapi’s late-game heroics propelled UST to a narrow 76-75 victory, ending FEU-D’s four-game winning streak.
Down by one point with 24.4 seconds left, the Tiger Cubs’ trapping defense paid off as Canapi stole the ball and quickly sank the go-ahead layup with 21.6 seconds remaining.
“Tumatak sa isip ko yung pag natalo kami, grabe magiging training namin. Kailangan talaga namin makuha yung panalo para hindi kami magpwesto sa fourth or third spot, kailangan namin makuha yung twice-to-beat,” shared the two-time Junior MPBL MVP.
While Canapi went on a scoring tear during the final moments against the Baby Tamaraws, he vows to continuously work on his game to fulfill his long-awaited dream of winning a title in the UAAP.
Despite finishing the game with a high of 21 points, six rebounds, five steals, and one assist, Canapi was limited to 5-of-18 shooting from the field due to FEU-D’s tenacious defense.
As UST continues its title bid in the U-16 basketball tournament, which has become an official sport this season, one thing remains certain: Canapi’s unwavering heart, dedication, and desire to win for UST.
“Madadala ko next game ay yung puso talaga namin. Hindi kami bumitaw ‘eh. It just goes to show na handa kami talunin ang kahit sino para sa goals namin. Hindi lang yung twice-to-beat, pero para makuha namin yung championship.”
