JANTI MILLER once again showcased his exceptional scoring after dropping 34 points on San Beda’s arch-rival Letran.
Miller reset his career-high in that game, going toe-to-toe with Knights star Titing Manalili, though it ended in an 83-87 loss to their archrivals in a game that was ‘non-bearing’ on paper but proved as a battle for pride between the two rival schools.
Still, his scoring exploits weren't lost on Letran head coach Allen Ricardo.
READ: Letran downs San Beda for morale boost ahead of must-win quarters
“Si Miller talagang halos bound for pro na ‘yan eh. Ang galing. I’ve witnessed how he handled those situations lalo na yung mga one-on-one, talagang iba yung calibre,” Ricardo said.
Miller said that he’s just merely making the most of that ‘rivalry’ atmosphere, noting how he didn’t experience this during his time in the United States.
“You don't really get too much rivalry like other leagues, you know? So it's always fun to be a part of that. It’s always fun to just go out there and just compete, and in that environment too,” he said.
“Obviously, the full crowd gives you certain adrenaline. It's fun to play in those crowds, and it definitely adds motivation.”
His career-night, however, certainly feels hollow after losing to their archrival no less. But he’s not worried at all.
“I feel like I just gave it all out there, impacted the game, the way I should. Unfortunately, it's an L, but we're not really worried,” he said.
“We’re going to be able to take it to the playoffs on Thursday.”
The 21-year-old now turns his focus on that quarterfinals match against Lyceum, as he’s set to use that loss to fuel his drive in this series where they hold a twice-to-beat advantage.
“It's added motivation because we're coming off a loss. We didn't end the season on a win,” he said.
“So we're just coming back, quarterfinals, and just looking for that W.”
With this being Miller’s first go around in the Philippines’ oldest collegiate league, getting a first taste of the quarterfinals and beyond has long been on his mind.
And on his part, the six-foot-four guard is promising nothing but his absolute best.
“Its the same thing every game, but now it's turned double notch,” he said.
“Just going to compete and kill, and just go out there and just dominate, at this point. Same thing I’ve been doing. It's gonna be a fun first playoff experience. I'm just I'm ready for it.”
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