Jhuniel Dela Rama weighs future with San Sebastian

Jhuniel Dela Rama remains uncertain about whether he will continue his collegiate career with San Sebastian College-Recoletos Golden Stags after delivering a breakout performance in NCAA Season 101.

“Right now, I don't know yet because I still want to enjoy myself here in the province and at the same time, I'll still be conditioning myself,” Dela Rama told DAILY TRIBUNE on Tuesday morning.

Dela Rama was named NCAA Season 101 Defensive Player of the Year after posting averages of 13.62 points, 10.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.7 steals. His all-around play also earned him spots on both the Mythical Team and the All-Defensive Team.

The 6-foot-2 forward said he is currently staying in Ormoc and only receiving updates about recent developments involving the Golden Stags.

“Right now, I don't know because I'm in the province. Others seem to be in disbelief, it seems like the speed of the incident,” he said.

According to Dela Rama, former head coach Rob Labagala did not want to leave the team.

“The truth is, he (Rob Labagala) didn't want to leave us, but that's what the president decided,” he shared.

“I'm still thankful for the opportunities he gave us despite the things that happened,” the 19-year-old added.

Wild, wild, wild ride for a rookie

While Dela Rama shone on both ends of the floor in his rookie season, the Golden Stags faced off-court issues that complicated their campaign.

At one point during the season, Labagala disclosed that the coaching staff and players were not being paid on time by management.

This claim was later denied by the college president, Rev. Fr. Rafael Peccon, who said monthly salaries and allowances were released promptly.