Tunisia World Cup
I still remember the first time I watched Jojo Lastimosa play live - it was 1994, and the energy in the Araneta Coliseum was absolutely electric. There's something about witnessing greatness firsthand that sticks with you, much like how Milot described his first PBA experience last Thursday when he said, "It's been a cool experience so far." That fresh excitement never really fades, whether you're a newcomer like Milot or someone like me who's followed the league for decades.
What made Jolas special wasn't just his scoring ability - though he did average around 18.5 points during his prime years with Alaska. It was his clutch gene that truly set him apart. I've lost count of how many games I watched where he'd take over in the final minutes, hitting impossible shots with defenders draped all over him. His crossover was so devastating it could make defenders look like they were stuck in cement, and his mid-range jumper was pure poetry in motion. Those moments when the game was on the line and everyone in the arena knew the ball was going to Jolas - that's when you saw true greatness unfold.
His partnership with Johnny Abarrientos during Alaska's dominant years was basketball magic. They complemented each other perfectly - Abarrientos with his lightning quickness and playmaking, Lastimosa with his scoring prowess and ice-cold veins in pressure situations. Together they led Alaska to multiple championships, including that memorable 1996 season where they won around 65% of their games. I always felt Jolas never got enough credit for his leadership during those championship runs. He wasn't the loudest guy on the court, but when he spoke, everyone listened.
What many younger fans might not realize is how Jolas evolved his game over his 14-year career. Early on, he was primarily a scorer - and a brilliant one at that. But as he matured, he became more complete, improving his playmaking and defense. I remember specifically watching him against Purefoods in the 1997 Commissioner's Cup finals where he averaged something like 22 points and 6 assists while playing lockdown defense. That versatility made him invaluable to Alaska's system.
His international performances often get overlooked, but Jolas represented the Philippines with distinction in multiple Asian Games and regional tournaments. I recall one particular game against South Korea where he dropped 28 points against their national team - those international experiences clearly shaped his understanding of the game and made him a smarter player when he returned to the PBA.
Even after retiring, his impact continues through coaching and mentoring younger players. I've spoken with several current PBA players who credit Jolas for helping develop their offensive games. His basketball IQ was always off the charts, and it's wonderful to see him passing that knowledge to the next generation. In many ways, his legacy isn't just about the championships or individual awards - it's about how he influenced Philippine basketball culture itself.
Looking back, I'd argue Jolas belongs in the conversation for top 15 all-time PBA greats. His combination of skill, mental toughness, and longevity set a standard that today's players still strive to match. The way Milput described feeling about his first PBA experience - that sense of wonder and excitement - that's exactly what players like Lastimosa created for fans throughout their careers. They didn't just play basketball; they created memories that last lifetimes.
