JACOB Bayla found himself face-to-face with the origins of his story in Philippine basketball.
This time, he was much more grown, a UAAP champion, and standing on the opposite side.
The University of the Philippines wing got a full-circle moment on Thursday after suiting up against Gilas Pilipinas Youth, the same national team program that first welcomed him to local shores years ago, as the Fighting Maroons rolled to a 92-74 win in the Filoil EcoOil 19th Preseason Cup.
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Bayla posted 10 points and three assists in the victory, but beyond the numbers, the match-up was very much personal for the Fil-Am talent.
“It’s just going back to my roots, playing against the national team. It’s always fun to play, either with or against them,” he told reporters.
“They’re good kids, and we actually have a Gilas Youth commit on our team, Joaquin [Tovera], and it’s nice to see him coming.”
Bayla’s stint with Gilas Youth proved to be a formative chapter in his development, eventually taking him to international competitions abroad.
Among the highlights of that run was their campaign in the 2022 FIBA Under-16 Asian Championship, where he represented the Philippines against some of the continent's top youngsters.
Fast forward to today, and Bayla found himself helping prepare the next generation - and in the end, this Philippine under-18 national team earned his stamp of approval.
“It was a good experience, especially being on the team before, and they did a good job," he said.
Para sa Pilipinas
Gilas Youth entered Filoil Preseason as a guest team with the aim of preparing for the upcoming 2026 FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.
But alongside exposing the Filipino youngsters to the Fighting Maroons' trademark aggressive defense and higher level of play, Bayla also hoped he reminded his successors that wearing the flag comes with a responsibility that extends beyond basketball itself.
“It’s always important to know what you’re playing for and know who you’re playing for: not just the team, but the whole country,” he said. “It’s important to know that and keep it in heart.”
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