From Leyte to the World Stage: The Journey of Jhuniel Dela Rama

Great journeys rarely happen overnight. They are built through sacrifice, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement.

For Jhuniel Dela Rama, the dream began in Leyte, where his passion for basketball first took shape. Determined to pursue bigger opportunities, he moved to Cebu to continue his high school basketball career, embracing every challenge that came with leaving home in pursuit of his goals.

His dedication eventually opened the door to NCAA basketball where he first competed at the high school level before earning the opportunity to play in the NCAA collegiate ranks. Every step of the journey demanded hard work, discipline and a willingness to keep learning.

Throughout his development, Jhuniel was guided by Coach Rob Labagala whose mentorship and player development philosophy helped shape him into one of the brightest young talents in one of the country’s premier collegiate basketball leagues. Under Coach Rob’s guidance, Jhuniel continued to refine his skills, strengthen his mindset and develop the habits required to compete at the highest level.

That commitment produced an outstanding rookie collegiate season. Jhuniel established himself as one of the NCAA’s brightest young stars after earning three of the league’s most prestigious individual honors:

• NCAA Defensive Player of the Year
• NCAA All-Defensive Team
• NCAA Mythical Five

These awards were a testament to his impact on both ends of the floor and the relentless work he invested in his development.

But success never became the destination.

Jhuniel continued his offseason training with Coach Rob Labagala through Passion Sports believing that improvement is a daily commitment. While others celebrated awards, he remained focused on becoming a better player.

That mindset opened another incredible door.

Jhuniel earned a call-up to the Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 National Team and has now booked his ticket to the FIBA 3×3 World Cup earning the opportunity to represent the Philippines on one of the biggest stages in international basketball. His journey from a young athlete in Leyte to wearing the Philippine colors on the world stage is a testament to years of preparation, sacrifice and unwavering belief.

Jhuniel’s story proves that dreams are achieved one step at a time.

From Leyte, to Cebu, to the NCAA and now to the FIBA 3×3 World Cup with Gilas Pilipinas, every chapter has been built on faith, discipline, quality coaching and a relentless commitment to continuous growth.

At Passion Sports, we believe development never ends. Talent may open the door, but character, consistency and the right guidance are what take athletes to the world stage.

From local courts to the world stage, this is only the beginning.