Joson on Joining NBL1’s Wolves: ‘Opportunity to Grow’

Filipino basketball standout Jhazmin Joson is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in her career as she officially signs with the Joondalup Wolves for the 2025 NBL1 West season. The move marks another major step for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s star, who has steadily risen through the ranks from the UAAP to international competition.

In an exclusive interview with me, Joson shared her excitement about joining the Wolves and how she sees this opportunity shaping her future.

“I’m really excited about joining the Joondalup Wolves and taking the next step in my career,” Joson said through text. “It feels like a big opportunity to grow as a player, and I’m eager to contribute to the team and improve my game on this bigger stage.”

Why Joondalup for Joson?

The Wolves, known for their strong basketball culture and consistent playoff contention, had been in discussions with Joson since last year. Their persistence and vision ultimately convinced her to sign with them, adding another dynamic weapon to their contending team.

​In the 2024 NBL1 West season, the Wolves finished in second place with a 16-6 win-loss record, securing their spot in the finals.

“The Wolves reached out to me last year and kept in touch through the offseason. Their vision for my development aligned with my goals,” she explained. “Their commitment to success and their strong program made it an easy decision to sign with them.”

Joondalup’s structured system, which emphasizes ball movement and spacing, plays to Joson’s strengths as a shooter and playmaker. She sees herself fitting seamlessly into their offensive and defensive schemes.

“Their system complements my ability to space the floor, create for my teammates, and hit clutch shots. I think I can thrive in that kind of environment.”

A Journey of Growth

Joson’s basketball journey has been defined by constant adaptation and learning. From her days as a key player for Ateneo in the UAAP to representing Gilas Pilipinas Women in international tournaments, she has always sought ways to improve her game.

“Playing for Ateneo and Gilas taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, and competing at a high level,” Joson said. “Learning from my veterans has had a huge impact on my game as well. Those experiences have really helped me grow as a player and a leader.”

Her recent stint with former team Goldfields Giants in NBL1 West also prepared her for this transition. “My time with the Goldfields Giants taught me how to adjust quickly and how to play with different teammates. It was a valuable learning experience that I’ll carry with me to Joondalup.”

Adjusting to a new country, team, and system will be no small feat, but Joson is ready for the challenge.

“Moving to a new country, adapting to a new team, and learning a new system will be challenging, but I’m preparing by staying in shape and studying the team’s playbook,” she said.

Her training regimen includes regular workouts with the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s team and individual skill work with Better Basketball. She’s also focused on fine-tuning key aspects of her game, such as decision-making, creating space against taller defenders, and finding alternative ways to score when opponents key in on her.

Looking Ahead

Joson’s goals for the season are clear: “I want to improve every day, help the team win, and make an impact both offensively and defensively. I want to be a key contributor to the Wolves’ success.”

Beyond NBL1 West, she remains ambitious about her future. “My long-term aspirations are to continue improving and hopefully have a chance to represent my country again on the national team, play at the WNBL, or even play at a higher level abroad.”

As she begins this exciting new journey, Joson remains grateful to those who have supported her along the way.

“To the people who have been there since day one, thank you for your continuous support! I will always give my best for you, and I hope you’ll continue to cheer me on as I embark on this new chapter.”

Joson’s move to the Joondalup Wolves signals another significant step for Filipino talent in international basketball. With her work ethic, skill set, and competitive mindset, she has the necessary traits to make a lasting impact in Australia’s NBL1 West.

Filipino fans will be watching closely, ready to cheer her on as she continues to make waves on the international stage.