New dads Jio Jalalon, Paul Lee draw inspiration from first-borns

Magnolia guards Jio Jalalon and Paul Lee are playing inspired basketball lately after the two became new dads to adorable daughters just 11 days apart.

Jalalon laid eyes on his daughter named Jiana Skyla on September 27 while Lee welcomed Tokyo on Monday, the same day he inked a three-year contract to stay with the Hotshots.

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“I’m inspired by my baby and my fiance, I draw strength from them,” said Jalalon in Filipino after recording his first PBA triple-double with 13 points, 12 rebounds and 13 assists in Magnolia’s 133-99 dismantling of Blackwater on Wednesday night.

Lee, who was traded by Rain or Shine to the Purefoods franchise two years ago, had another stellar performance with 19 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field, five rebounds and four assists in only 20 minutes.

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“First baby and I got renewed by the team so I’m really happy right now. It’s a different feeling now that I have my first baby. It adds inspiration for me to work hard and everything I do is for my baby and family,” said Lee, who helped the Hotshots climb to solo second place with a 6-1 slate, just a half-game behind Barangay Ginebra.

“I will do everything for my baby. I hope all the blessings I’m getting won’t stop. I will continue to work hard and for sure, the blessings will follow.”