The Magnolia Hotshots made a notable move in the 2024 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft by selecting Jerom Lastimosa as the ninth overall pick. Known for his impressive performance in the UAAP with the Adamson Soaring Falcons, Lastimosa was considered a top prospect despite his ongoing knee injury. However, recent news from Magnolia has dealt a blow to the team’s hopes, as head coach Chito Victolero confirmed that Lastimosa will not be participating in the ongoing 2024 Season 49 PBA Governor’s Cup due to his injury.
“Jerom told me that he started with physio and by this month, he will start running. The goal is for him to join practice by October or November but definitely, he won’t play in this conference. According to the medical staff, he can start training in October, but only for running. I don’t think that will cut it because this conference might end in November,” said Victolero in a recent media interaction.
Lastimosa suffered a significant setback when he tore his ACL in October of last year while playing for Adamson in the UAAP. This injury has kept him off the court for nearly a year, and while progress is being made in his rehabilitation, the timeline for his return remains uncertain. The Hotshots are prioritizing Lastimosa's long-term health, taking a cautious approach to his recovery to ensure he returns to peak condition.
Magnolia's decision to draft Lastimosa, despite his injury, highlights the team's belief in his potential and their commitment to nurturing his talent. Coach Victolero emphasized that the team is not in a rush to have Lastimosa back on the court, stating, “We don’t want to force Jerom and have his knee re-injured. We want him to be healthy when he returns so we won’t have anything to think about. Jerom is a very special player. We picked him as someone who can really help this team but for now, since he is out, we will just fill in that space when it comes to offense.”
Lastimosa’s absence leaves a gap in Magnolia’s lineup, but the team’s management remains optimistic about the future. The young guard’s skills and potential make him a valuable asset for Magnolia, and they are prepared to support his recovery fully. Had Lastimosa not been injured, he was projected to be a top-three pick in the PBA Rookie Draft, further underscoring the high regard for his capabilities among scouts and coaches.
Jerom Lastimosa’s rise to prominence began with his stellar performance in the 2022 UAAP men’s basketball championships, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Adamson Soaring Falcons. His standout season earned him the PSBankable Player of the Season award, and his contributions were so impactful that Adamson University retired his No. 7 jersey. This accolade is a testament to his influence on the team and his exceptional talent on the court.
Magnolia’s mixed start to the Governor’s Cup, with a 2-2 win-loss record, places them fourth in the standings. As they look ahead to their upcoming basketball match against Terrafirma Dyip on Thursday, September 12, the Hotshots are focused on adjusting their strategies and maximizing their current roster’s capabilities to mitigate the impact of Lastimosa's absence. The team is well-aware that filling the void left by a player of Lastimosa’s caliber is no easy task, but they are committed to competing at a high level while awaiting his eventual return.
Magnolia’s Jerick Ahanmisi and coach Chito Victolero after improving to 2-2 after their win over Terrafirma. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/kDKK40DbR2
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) September 1, 2024
The Hotshots' management has made it clear that they view Lastimosa as a long-term investment. This patient approach not only prioritizes the player's health but also aligns with Magnolia’s broader strategy of building a competitive and sustainable team for the future. Lastimosa’s potential return to the court, fully recovered and in top form, could be a game-changer for Magnolia in subsequent seasons.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see Lastimosa make his debut in the PBA. His journey back from injury will be closely watched, and his eventual return is highly anticipated by the Magnolia faithful. Until then, the Hotshots will have to navigate the current season without one of their most promising young talents, relying on their depth and adaptability to stay competitive.
Magnolia’s dedication to ensuring Lastimosa’s complete recovery underscores the team’s commitment to its players’ well-being and long-term success. This careful management of player injuries and development reflects a strategic approach that could pay dividends as the season progresses and beyond.
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