Coach Allen Sees Jimboy as “Bound for Pro”

In his first two seasons with Letran, Jimboy Estrada established himself as one of the Knights’ go-to scorers. Now, even as he comes off the bench, the guard continues to play a major role for the Knights, showing that he can adapt to whatever role head coach Allen Ricardo needs him to fill without sacrificing his impact on the court.

Ricardo believes Estrada is already bound for the professional ranks, pointing to his ability to contribute at multiple positions.

“Si Jimboy Estrada, bound for pro na talaga ’yan eh,” Ricardo told ALL-STAR.

“Kailangan ko lang ma-determine saan siya mas mas magiging effective. Pwede siya mag-point guard, pwede siya mag-shooting guard. Kahit nga sa four, pwede siya eh.”

That trust goes both ways. Estrada said he has full confidence in Ricardo’s decisions, knowing that wherever the coach puts him, it is where he can best help the team.

“Talagang sobrang laki ng tiwala ko sa kanya kung paano niya ako gamitin,” Estrada told ALL-STAR.

“Kahit ano mangyari, sunod ako kay Coach Allen. So, ready lang kung ano ’yung matutulong ko sa court o kahit kapag nasa labas ako ng court,” Estrada added.

Estrada’s willingness to embrace his role has paid off. Despite coming off the bench, he continues to deliver for the Knights, recently earning Player of the Week honors and helping Letran become the first team to secure a twice-to-beat advantage heading into the quarterfinals of NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball.

For Estrada, the change in role is part of a bigger goal. He is willing to make sacrifices as long as they benefit the team, keeping the Knights’ championship aspirations ahead of individual recognition.

“Laging sinasabi ni Coach Allen, ito ’yung revenge season. Gustong-gusto namin makuha ’yung panalo sa finals, pero nandito kami ngayon focus one game at a time,” Estrada said.