UAAP: Injured Jerom Lastimosa requires surgery, keen on playing for Adamson

FILE – Adamson star Jerom Lastimosa. –UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Adamson guard Jerom Lastimosa guarantees playing for the Falcons this UAAP Season 86 despite being required to go under the knife to fully recover from a knee injury.

Lastimosa didn’t say the extent of his injury which he reportedly sustained in practice but he vows to see action for Adamson sometime in the first round of the men’s basketball tournament.

“No matter what and whatever happens it needs surgery,” Lastimosa told reporters during the Season 86 press conference on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena. 

“What I can really say is I will play,” he added.

The 5-foot-10 point guard, who is in his final year, is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

“For now, I do aggressive rehab for my knee and hopefully, I’m able to return as early as the first round,” Lastimosa said.

Lastimosa averaged 14.8 markers, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game to steer Adamson to a 7-7 record and a Final Four appearance.

The Falcons fell to the eventual champions, Ateneo Blue Eagles, with Lastimosa earning a Mythical Five selection.

Lastimosa, who decided to stay with Adamson amid offers from professional teams, hopes to lead the Falcons to a UAAP title.

“Of course, that’s why I stayed at Adamson. I want to finish my studies. Second, to win the championship.”

Lastimosa is looking to apply the invaluable lessons he learned from his experience playing for Gilas Pilipinas at the Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia last May where the team reclaimed the gold medal.

“I’ve learned a lot from the vets especially when I made the Gilas team I learned a lot and I think I’ll be able to show that this coming season.”