Ilonggo Javelosa, big point guard in the PBA draft
Despite playing the big man position for most part of his basketball career, Ilonggo Michael Jay Javelosa is ready to make a transition to point guard when selected in the 2021 PBA Rookie Draft.
The Iloilo City-native told Watchmen Daily Journal on Sunday that being a ballhandler with his 6-foot-5 frame could give him an edge in a talent-rich rookie class which will have a virtual ceremony on March 14.
“Whichever team selects me on draft day can expect a lot of unselfishness from me,” the former Iloilo United Royals center said. “I am comfortable to play the point since that was my playing position growing up.”
“I guess I would say my game is like (Philadelphia 76ers) Ben Simmons but with shooting,” he added. “I am very much comfortable playing the point and won’t hesitate to shoot the ball naman when needed.”
Javelosa, son of the Royals team owner JJ Javelosa at the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, played for Ateneo Grade School in elementary and at Reedley International School for high school.
While in Reedley, Javelosa was named as part of the Philippines’ 16 under and 18 under. He was also a member of the national team that played in the Adidas Nation in Long Beach, California.
In college, Javelosa had suited up for the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles and, after his collegiate years, he played in MPBL for Navotas Uni-Pak Sardines before moving to his hometown team Iloilo in 2019.
“Honestly, I was not really expecting (to join the draft) because of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and since the draft class is very deep,” he said. “I just asked guidance from the Lord.”
“I wouldn’t mind playing for any team naman because it’s still the PBA,” he added. “As long as my teammates treat the game property, I’ll be fine in any team.”/