Lastimosa, Hanapi banner Adamson in PBA Draft
Date Posted: July 9, 2024 at 04:22 PM
Two Adamsonians have thrown their names in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) rookie draft, scheduled for July 14, as Falcon alumni Didat Hanapi and Jerom Lastimosa set their sights on turning pro.
Lastimosa, the most recent skipper of the Soaring Falcons, was with Adamson's basketball program for six years under the mentorship of coaches Franz Pumaren and Nash Racela, eventually emerging as one of the country’s premier guards.
His time in San Marcelino saw him win the PSBankable Player of the Season award in UAAP 85 and be known as one of the best bucket-getters, especially in the clutch.
The Dumaguete native’s contributions also extended beyond collegiate play, as he was a key member of Gilas Men's squad during the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, where the Philippines secured the gold medal.
Despite a setback due to an anterior cruciate ligament tear during UAAP Season 86, Lastimosa's loyalty and impact on Adamson University basketball were honored with the retirement of his jersey number 7.
Hanapi, meanwhile, is a versatile wingman known for his slashing skills, joins the draft after a standout career with Adamson’s juniors and seniors program.
In UAAP85 and 86, the 22-year-old was a key cog in Adamson’s push for a Final Four slot.
Hanapi, though, decided to forego his remaining years of eligibility in the UAAP to play for Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League’s (MPBL) Manila SV Batang Sampaloc where he remains a serviceable rotation piece for one of the tournament’s top squads.
In response to the departure of two of their main guys, the Soaring Falcons have begun to retool and establish new leaders of the team.
As of writing, Mathew Montebon has risen as the San Marcelino crew’s new King Falcon after winning the MVP in Adamson’s triump in the Mayor Kirk Asis Invitational in Bayugan Citym, Agusan del Sur.
