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The Most Notable Jr. NBA All-Star Alumni
These boys have made the Jr. NBA program proud
We Filipinos love basketball, but our passion and talent for the sport is actually known the world over. That’s why the Jr NBA program reached our shores and we’re honestly so thankful. The program, which is for boys and girls aged 6 to 14, has helped hone the skills of some of the most recognizable names in the industry.
Kiefer Ravena, Batch 2007
After his stint with the Jr NBA, he made his way to Ateneo de Manila University and played with the Blue Eagles. He led his team to two UAAP championships and was labeled the King Eagle. Following his collegiate career, Kiefer now plays for Alab Pilipinas.
Aljon Mariano, Batch 2007
Mariano was a force to be reckoned with in the UAAP, where he played a pivotal role for the University of Sto. Tomas. Afterwards, he played professionally for Ginebra in the Philippine Basketball Association.
Jose Carlos Escalambre, Batch 2009
Following his stint at the Jr NBA program when he was younger, Escalambre wore the colors of the Univerisity of the Philippines in the UAAP.
Janhubert Angelo Cani, Batch 2010
Proudly playing the game for ADMU, Cani was a one to look out for in the court. He was often marked as one of the biggest scorers in his games.
Kirell Brandon “Kib” Montalbo, Batch 2010
Montalbo is a name familiar with those that follow the UAAP, as he has rightfully made his mark with the De La Salle Green Archers.
Photo via Twitter/KibMontalbo
Renzar Henry Asilum, Batch 2010
After his training under Utah Jazz guard Gordon Hayward during his stay in the Jr NBA program, Asilum chose to play for UP.
Dawn Hynric Ochea, Batch 2011
He was a standout star in his younger years and Ochea continued to prove his talent when he joined Adamson University as the school’s power forward.
Ferdinand “Thirdy” Ravena III, Batch 2011
Thirdy had a lot to prove, following the successful careers of his father and older brother. Despite the pressure, he soared as the King Eagle during his time with ADMU.
Kobe Lorenzo Paras, Batch 2011
Often the subject of basketball gossip, Kobe chose to pursue a collegiate career in the US. It was first announced that he would run the court for UCLA, but he ended up playing for the Creighton Bluejays.
Lorenzo Navarro, Batch 2011
For his talents in the game, Navarro was asked to play for the DLSU Green Archers. He also played a notable role in the games of Batang Gilas.
Photo via Instagram/AirRenzo11
Miguel Competente, Batch 2011
Thanks to the support of his parents—who booked a flight to Cebu just because Davao was not included in the Jr NBA program—Competente eventually found himself wearing the jersey of UST.
Jarrell Kim, Batch 2011
A standout basketball star from Xavier, who the Universities had their eye on from the beginning, Jarrell eventually made his decision to play for UP.
Aljun Jay Melecio, Batch 2012
While Aljun eventually became a star player for DLSU, his talent was recognized throughout the entire league even before that. He was named one of the Mythical 5 members in the Junior UAAP season 77.
Camillus Altamirano, Batch 2012
Altamirano really shined during his stay with Jr NBA. At the end of the program, he was named one of the top ten of his batch.
Felixberto Jaboneta IV, Batch 2012
Before making his way to UP to start his collegiate career, Jaboneta left a parting gift for Ateneo Cebu: An NBTC championship.
Christian Tyler Tio, Batch 2013
He may have chosen to play for ADMU for its coaching staff and his eyed degree, but Tio was also happy to share the connection with the rest of his family. He was part of the top ten players of his Jr NBA batch.
Photo via SlamOnlinePh.Com
Gian Robert Mamuyac, Batch 2013
Just last year, Mamuyac blocked Stephen Curry’s attempt at a 3-point shot during an exhibition game in Taiwan. It was just one play, but it was a play that will not be forgotten any time soon.
Paolo Ricci Rivero, Batch 2013
Rivero eventually chose to further hone his basketball skills with the coaching of the DLSU team. He believes that his game will be developed most with the Green Archers.
Marco Sario, Batch 2013
Before choosing his university, Sario was asked to train first with UP. However, he admitted that even DLSU had invited him to some games.
Samuel Abu Hijleh, Batch 2013
Last year, this Fil-Jordanian led the San Beda Red Cubs to their 7th consecutive championship in the NCAA junior’s basketball league.
Photo via SlamOnlinePh.Com
Samjosef Belangel, Batch 2014
Despite still being a junior player, Belangel is already making his mark in the local basketball scene. With him at the helm, ADMU ousted De La Salle Zobel from the top four spot in this year’s UAAP season.
Rhayaan Amsali, Batch 2014
He may be young, but Amsali already has a lot of eyes on him. He’s already being called one of the best high school players in the country and we’re sure his career is only taking off.
Paul Matthew Manalang, Batch 2014
Manalang was granted the opportunity to spend time with Basketball Without Boarders, which was in Melbourne, Australia. He was also named the MVP in his batch with Jr NBA.
