How Omar John Turned Frustration Into Focus

National University’s Omar John believes he has grown immensely, not just as an athlete but as a person, since he first joined the Bulldogs’ roster. From being a fiery young foreign student-athlete known for his emotional outbursts, John has transformed into one of the UAAP’s most composed and disciplined big men.

We’ve seen his evolution firsthand — from getting technical fouls to now keeping his cool on the hard court and anchoring NU’s defense which has helped propelled them to a 7-2 record and the top seed in the UAAP standings. This shift hasn’t gone unnoticed by those around him.

“Omar’s maturity, wala akong masasabi. At least he understands kung ano yung role niya sa team talaga. Alam niya na kung ano yung value niya sa team talaga. So I’m happy sa growth niya. Hopefully magtuloy-tuloy na talaga,” says NU head coach Jeff Napa in an interview with ALL-STAR Magazine.

That maturity is now evident every time John steps on the court. In UAAP Season 88, he’s been a key figure in NU’s performances, posting all-around numbers — 7.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 55% shooting per game — that highlight both his poise and presence in the paint.

But for Omar, the numbers tell only part of the story. His real victory lies in conquering his temper.

“I learned a lot, especially from my mistakes, like having an attitude inside the court, like getting frustrated. But right now, I realized that there is no need to do that. Yeah, just focus on the game and help the team,” John shared in an exclusive interview.

Internal reflection has become a big part of John’s growth process. He’s learned to manage emotions that once cost him focus and momentum.

“I said to myself, ‘Yeah, there is no need to do that.’ Because them also, they are humans, they make mistakes. So, who I am to tell them, like, don’t do this, don’t do this, you know. So, I just fix myself and get better. Whenever I’m frustrated, I talk to myself. Like, saying, ‘Omar, calm down, you know, the game is not done yet, calm down.’”

That level of self-awareness is what separates this year’s Omar John from the player fans remember two seasons ago. Back then, he was still adjusting to the UAAP’s physicality and intensity; a fiery 6-foot-10 center who let his emotions dictate his play. Sitting out last season gave him time to work on that.

“The first thing I did is go over my anger issue because, two years ago, if you saw me, I was, like, very mad inside the court, you know, yelling, having technical fouls. Yeah, I worked on that, like how to control myself. Yeah, and thank God, I’m still processing it, it’s still in the process, but I improved a lot from that,” Omar added.

Indeed, that self-control has paid off. In NU’s statement win against UST earlier in the first round, John showed not just discipline but defensive dominance. Tasked with guarding UST rookie sensation Collins Akowe, who had been averaging 24.5 points and 18 rebounds per game, John limited him to just five points and eight rebounds. It was a masterclass in controlled aggression, a sign of how far he’s come.

Being the Bulldogs’ big man means more than just scoring. It’s also about owning the paint, protecting the rim, and setting the tone defensively. That’s exactly what John has embraced.

“Number one, I told him to concentrate on defense talaga. Bonus na yung offense sa kanya. At least he understands kung ano yung value na playing defense talaga. So we’re hoping for him, hopefully maging consistent pa siya,” Coach Jeff remarked.

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It’s a mindset John fully accepts. He’s learned to value consistency, teamwork, and staying mentally steady no matter the situation.

“I learned to not relax until you hear the last whistle. I learned also that I have to play hard the entire game. Yeah, no matter what, no matter the opponent, I have to do my role, I have to play my game, yeah, and I have to contribute also,” Omar says.

From being labeled a hot-headed rookie to now becoming one of NU’s most reliable leaders, Omar John’s journey reflects genuine growth. His maturity has elevated both his game and the Bulldogs’ chances this season.

He’s still processing and still improving, but he’s already proven that learning to control one’s emotions can be just as important as perfecting a post move or blocking a shot.

As NU continues its UAAP Season 88 campaign, John’s transformation stands as one of the year’s most compelling stories: a player who learned that the greatest victory sometimes happens within.