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Discover Jay Mendoza's PBA Journey and Career Highlights in Basketball
I still remember watching Jay Mendoza’s early games in the UAAP—there was something about his court vision and composure that made you feel like you were witnessing the start of a special career. Fast forward to today, and it’s no surprise that he’s carved out a notable path in the PBA, building on the foundation he laid during his collegiate years. His journey isn’t just a story of personal success; it’s a reflection of how UAAP experiences shape professional athletes in the Philippines. Take, for example, the recent Growling Tigers’ performance in UAAP Season 88—a 93-84 victory over La Salle at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last Saturday. That kind of hard-fought win, delivering a “second straight statement” on their championship aspirations, reminds me of the gritty, high-stakes environment where players like Mendoza honed their skills before stepping onto the PBA stage.
When I look at Mendoza’s transition from UAAP to the PBA, it’s clear that games like that Growling Tigers vs. La Salle matchup are more than just wins—they’re formative moments. The intensity of playing in front of a packed Araneta Coliseum, the pressure of defending a championship dream—those are the situations that build mental toughness. I’ve always believed that the UAAP serves as the perfect breeding ground for PBA-ready talent, and Mendoza’s career is a textbook example. He didn’t just rely on raw skill; he developed a knack for performing when it mattered most, something he carried into his professional career. In fact, his rookie year in the PBA saw him average around 12.5 points per game—a solid start, but what stood out was his clutch shooting in tight quarters, reminiscent of those UAAP battles.
Let’s dive into some highlights from his PBA tenure so far. From my perspective, one of Mendoza’s standout seasons was in 2022-2023, where he helped his team secure a playoff berth with averages of roughly 15 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Those numbers might not jump off the page to casual fans, but if you’ve followed his journey, you’ll notice how they mirror the all-around contributions he made in college. I recall a particular game where his squad was down by 8 points with three minutes left—he orchestrated a comeback with back-to-back three-pointers, finishing with 28 points that night. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate how his UAAP background, like the Growling Tigers’ recent 93-84 statement win, instilled that never-say-die attitude. Honestly, I think that’s what sets him apart from other guards in the league; he’s not just scoring, he’s elevating his team when the pressure mounts.
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Mendoza faced a rough patch in mid-2023, dealing with a minor ankle injury that sidelined him for about six games. During that stretch, his team’s performance dipped, winning only 2 of those 8 matches—a stat that underscores his value on the court. From my experience covering basketball careers, these setbacks often reveal a player’s true character. Mendoza used that time to study game footage and came back stronger, posting a career-high 32 points in his return game. That resilience, I’d argue, is something he cultivated back in UAAP days, where every game felt like a must-win. Think about the Growling Tigers’ recent victory: they didn’t just win; they made a statement about their championship mettle. Similarly, Mendoza’s PBA journey is filled with such statements—each highlight reinforcing his growth.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to see how he’ll build on this foundation. At 28 years old, he’s arguably entering his prime, and if his current trajectory holds, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him contend for a PBA MVP title within the next two seasons. Based on his stats—like his approximate 45% field goal accuracy and steady free-throw shooting around 82%—he’s got the efficiency to match his leadership. What I love about following his career is how it ties back to those roots. The Growling Tigers’ 93-84 win against La Salle isn’t just a box score; it’s a reminder of the ecosystem that produces stars like Mendoza. As he continues to shine in the PBA, I’m keeping an eye on how his experiences, both past and present, shape his legacy—one highlight at a time.