Jaybie Mantilla. | CDN File photo
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Former Cesafi MVP Jaybie Mantilla, one of the more noted Cebuano basketball players, has a message for young basketball players who dream to play in the big stage.
“Keep pursuing your dreams,” Mantilla said in a Facebook post that went viral.
His advice comes at a perfect time as the Cesafi just kicked off its brand new season, igniting once more the basketball dreams of many aspiring basketball players around the region.
READ MORE: CESAFI 2023: Longer, more competitive season with new member schools joining the action
“A piece of advice sa tanan nga nangandoy maka duwa sa Cesafi. Keep pursuing your dreams, keep practicing,” part of his Facebook post reads.
(A piece of advice to those looking to play in the Cesafi. Keep Pursuing your dreams, Keep practicing.)
Mantilla’s story is a testament of hard work, resilience and determination.
Mantilla’s basketball journey began with humble beginnings. Despite his success today in basketball, it’s surprising to learn that he faced rejection during his earlier years.
READ MORE: 2023 PBA Draft: Cebuano cagers excited, nervous for Draft day
“Since elementary and high school, nag sige ko’g try out. Pero wa damha, sa college nako na dawat,” his post further reads.
(Since elementary and high school, I kept trying out for the varsity team. But it was only during my college years that I made it.)
He later made his mark while playing for the University of San Jose Recoletos (ISJ-R) during most of his college days and even had the opportunity to play for the University of the Philippines (UP) in the UAAP for a year. These achievements speak volumes about his dedication to the sport.
READ MORE: Cesafi MVPs Mantilla, Imperial to suit up for JPS-Lantau Zamboanga Peninsula
“Don’t give up! Time will come ikaw nasad among tan awon sa court,” his caption further reads.
(Don’t give up! Time will come you will be the ones we will be watching on the court.)
Recently, Mantilla took a shot at joining the PBA, the country’s top basketball league.
He was among the ten Cebu-based players who applied to be drafted this year. While his name might not have been called during the draft, Mantilla chose to see this as an opportunity to inspire others.
We’re pretty sure that with his dedication and determination, we’re going to see more of this hardworking Cebuano player in the big leagues soon.
/bmjo
READ MORE: Former Cesafi MVPs Mantilla, Imperial to apply for PBA Draft