NCAA: ‘Future is bright’ for Jonathan Manalili, Letran

Letran rookie Jonathan Manalili during a game against Perpetual Help in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball Final Four.–NCAA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—One thing is clear for Letran coach Allen Ricardo at the end of the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament: the only way to go is up for the Knights.

After absorbing a sweep at the hands of San Beda in the Season 101 Finals, Ricardo barely showed any disappointment with his boys.

In fact, he was content with the run Letran had after a forgettable run in 2024.

“I’m happy with the progression we had. We went up from the sixth seed last year, now we’re runner-ups,” he told the Inquirer.

“There’s nothing to be ashamed of. It was a good experience for us and for me, as a second-year coach.”

Last year, the Knights barely sniffed the Final Four scene, ending up at the lower end of the standings.

In a quick turnaround, Ricardo, is only in second official year as a Letran coach, saw success in a Knights run, thanks in large part to rookie Jonathan Manalili.

Manalili, who posted 14.087 points, 8.92 assists and 5.15 rebounds per game, took home both the Rookie of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors.

But Ricardo knows the Knights revenge tour in Season 102 won’t just revolve around Manalili alone.

With dependable gunslingers like Jimboy Estrada in the mix, Letran remains a force to be reckoned with for next season.

“The future’s bright for Jonathan but it’s not just bright for him. The future’s bright for these Letran Knights. We’ll come back stronger next year,” Ricardo said.