It didn’t take long for National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) defending champion San Beda University to fill a gaping hole when the Red Lions welcomed the arrival of Jhuniel dela Rama following the sudden exit of Janti Miller.

Dela Rama, 19, made heads turn as he was one of the bright spots in San Sebastian College’s campaign in Season 101.

While the Stags’ performance was woeful after logging an overall 3-11 win-loss slate in Season 101, Dela Rama showed a lot of promise and this is probably the reason why his entry into the Lion’s den is something to look forward to.

The Ormoc, Leyte guard averaged 13.86 points, 11.07 rebounds and 1.86 assists.

The 6-foot-2 Dela Rama, who was named part of the Mythical Team in his first year in the NCAA, said he is following the footsteps of another San Beda and Ormoc hoops star, Robert Bolick.

Now a star in the professional league, Bolick jumped ship to San Beda in 2015 after riding the bench most of his first two years with De La Salle University.

The NLEX and Gilas Pilipinas guard’s playmaking and scoring led the Lions to three straight NCAA titles from 2016 to 2018 and even a sting in the Japan B2 League.

“The main reason why I transferred to San Beda is I want to improve myself more, and I want to have a better future with them as well,” Dela Rama told DAILY TRIBUNE as he is expected to suit up in Season 103.

“Just like how they took care of Kuya Robert Bolick, he discovered more about himself during his stay at San Beda.”

Lions head coach Yuri Escueta is excited with what the future holds.

“We have Dam Marcelo, Aldous Torculas and a rookie,” Escueta said in a text message.

San Beda, one of the best collegiate basketball programs in the country, has a great track record of bringing out the best in each player.

Season 101 Most Valuable Player Bryan Sajonia found his footing with the Lions after leaving Far Eastern University in 2023.

Joining Sajonia are Bismarck Lina and RC Calimag of the University of the Philippines (UP), who became key figures of their Season 101 title run.

As for Miller, he hopes to make an impact in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

The 6-foot-5 Fairfield, California guard looks to join the likes of William Navarro and Jacob Cotez as he pursues an UAAP title in his first try after winning with San Beda.      Ivan Suing

“You guys took a chance on me and embraced me as one of your own, a kid who wasn’t familiar with his Filipino roots, and some may say I’m not even Filipino. Not only did you take me in for basketball, but y’all helped me to understand my history,” said Miller, who is reportedly being wooed by Ateneo de Manila University, UP and La Salle.

“I love my teammates and my coaches. I’m glad I was able to bring you guys and the community a championship and leave a winner.”