JHONARD Clarito has earned the nickname in ‘Michael Jhonard’ within the Rain or Shine organization after he won the Most Improved Player award for the 48th Season of the league, an award that coach Yeng Guiao said is well-deserved.
“Michael Jhonard na tawag namin dito,” said Guiao with a smile. “Deserving naman siya kasi ang sipag nito sa practice. Kahit sigawan mo, murahin mo, wala sa kanya.”
The 28-year-old Clarito was at best a diamond in the rough before his entry to the PBA, playing for De Ocampo Memorial College before working his way to a spot with the San Juan Knights' title-winning MPBL team.
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Picked No. 17 during the Season 47 draft, Clarito began his PBA career with measly averages of 1.3 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.3 assists in 5.8 minutes of play.
But through his hardwork, the numbers of the 6-foot-2 guard jumped the following season to 10.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. He also played in all 30 Rain or Shine games last season at 21.8 minutes per outing.
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Guiao wasn’t surprised with the way Clarito earned his way into the team’s rotation.
“Nagbubunga naman ‘yung tiyaga niya, pagpapasensya niya at suportado siya ng mga kasama niya,” Guiao said.
Against NLEX on Wednesday night, Clarito scored 24 points - just three shy of his career high he set last May 12 in the Philippine Cup quarterfinals - behind a perfect 9-of-9 clip from the field in the Elasto Painters' 124-105 win.
He also got a +37 efficiency, meaning Rain or Shine scored 37 points with Clarito on the floor.
Even though he was named as the Most Improved Player last season, Clarito said he is not stopping in finding ways to become an even better player.
“Iniimprove ko pa ‘yung depensa at shooting ko sa outside. Marami pa rin kulang. Winowork out ko ‘yung every practice,” said Clarito.
"Tapos suwerte ako sa mga teammates ko. Credit sa kanila ‘yun eh. Kung hindi dahil sa kanila, kung hindi dahil sa mga coaches, hindi ko makukuha ‘yun."
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