Graduating Alejandro laments not playing more years under NU coach Jarin

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

J-Jay Alejandro has undoubtedly become National University’s heart and soul, and with his final season nearing its potential end, the senior regrets that he only played for one year under head coach Jamike Jarin.

“When coach Jamike arrived at NU, it sunk in that I knew that this will be my last year,” said Alejandro in Filipino Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum. “It’s just unfortunate that we were only together for one year.”

And Alejandro’s time under Jarin could last for just two more games after NU lost its eighth game in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament following a 101-76 defeat to defending champion De La Salle.

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Alejandro finished with 20 points, eight rebounds, and five assists in a losing effort.

“With coach Jamike it’s like a love-hate relationship, because even though he’s furious at you, you know that he loves you,” said Alejandro. “Even though he’s shouting at us, that’s just coach Jamike.”

Alejandro’s affection for Jarin, though, doesn’t go unnoticed as Jarin plans to make their final games of the season special for his outgoing player.

NU is currently in sixth place with a 4-8 record and is in danger of falling off the race to the semifinals.

“We will dedicate these games to our senior captains J-Jay and Matt Salem,” said Jarin. “Of course, we are still going for the win but I’m disappointed with what is happening. We’re still positive that we can still pull out these last two games.”