Photo from hoopjunkie/Instagram
From the collegiate hardwood of Diliman to the international stage in Italy, University of the Philippines Fighting Maroon and Filipino American hooper Jacob Bayla continues to rise, this time under the guidance of none other than NBA star Derrick Rose.
One of the key players in UP’s UAAP Season 87 championship run against De La Salle University, Bayla was selected to represent at the prestigious Adidas Eurocamp, an elite showcase that gathers top young basketball prospects from around the globe.
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Donning the iconic 3-Stripes, Bayla trained and competed with Europe’s brightest talents.
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But the highlight of the camp wasn’t just the games or drills, but also the unexpected presence of Rose, former NBA MVP and a respected figure in the basketball world.
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In a moment caught on video, Rose emphasized the value of effort and consistency. “It’s all about the work you put in. It’s hard to make it,” he said, before pointing out that many lose motivation once they reach a certain level.
“Most guys once they do make it, they don’t like work hard. But the hardest thing is making it—some of the hardest [work] you’ll probably ever have to do in your life.”
Rose also spoke directly to the international players, offering advice grounded in experience. “This is huge that you’re coming over here. It’s about work, when you go back,” he told the group. “You can’t shy away from that work. Like most people think about it.”
Bayla, a Fil-Am guard with an already growing resume, previously turned heads when he was named to the Best 5 of the Adidas Nations Camp in Tokyo, an achievement made even more impressive by the fact that he was the only non-local athlete invited to the exclusive event.
He delivered a standout performance in Tokyo, leading his team with 15 points in the All-Star Game.
