Filipino basketball players

That’s the life: Why Juan GDL is moving to Tokyo

Naveen Ganglani

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That’s the life: Why Juan GDL is moving to Tokyo

LIVING INDEPENDENTLY. Juan Gomez de Liaño is set for a new chapter in his life.

FIBA

Juan Gomez de Liaño looks forward to experiencing a new life in Tokyo

The name of Juan Gomez de Liaño has brought significant interest in the Philippine basketball scene nearly the last half-decade.

Gomez de Liaño put his name on the map by winning the UAAP high school MVP award in early 2017, stamped himself as the collegiate division’s best rookie a few months later, then helped lead the UP Fighting Maroons to their first finals appearance in 32 years in UAAP Season 81. 

He established himself as one of college hoops’ premier stars and was also a fixture in the Gilas national team program.

Juan, the second of the four “GDL Bros,” often wowed spectators with pick-and-roll mastery for a student-athlete his age, electrifying dunks in transition, impressive shot-making from long range, and a competitive spirit that brought Iskos and Iskas to their feet.

Some of these highlights from back in the day even made it all the way to the international scene, which is exactly where Juan GDL himself is now headed. 

The 21-year-old standout has signed to play with Earth Friends Tokyo Z as an Asian import in the second division of the Japanese B. League. 

It’s a similar path which was taken by Ateneo’s Thirdy Ravena, who Juan competed against in the 2018 UAAP Finals, and now plays for San-En NeoPhoenix. The former UAAP Finals MVP recently signed an extension to stay in Japan.

“My thoughts are happiness for Juan as this is another step for a Filipino to play abroad and also to showcase that Filipinos are world-class ballers,” his father Bert told Rappler.

“He had plenty of offers from pro teams in Hungary, Italy, and Dubai, but our criteria would be the first one to put a contract up front and no looking back. This is the first step of many to reach more international exposure.”

According to Juan, “it’s just all positive from our side,” as he embarks on a new journey in his life. He is set to depart for Japan in mid-August.

“There were many factors that Juan considered. His newfound team is very transparent and laid out a career plan which was very good for player growth,” Bert said.

One of the key selling points was the tutelage Juan would have under his new mentor.

“The other big consideration is that Juan will be mentored by their new coach, Hugo Lopez, who was once the assistant coach of Real Madrid and the head coach of the Sweden national team.”

Juan shared that he and the 45-year-old Lopez have been in touch for a month now, and that they have already built a trusting relationship. Gomez de Liaño was amazed when he learned of Lopez’s credentials, which include 21 years of experience and a Coach of the Year award in the National Basketball League of Canada.

“He told me a lot of good things. He was very interested. Actually, he was the one, besides my agent, really pushing to sign me.”

Both father and son confirmed that with the young GDL going to Japan, this means the end of his UAAP career with the Fighting Maroons.

“I believe he did his part in contributing. Now it is time for him to develop further…like any other athlete,” Bert said.

Juan will look back at his time in UP – which includes four seasons with UPIS and three more with the seniors’ club – as a “blessing.”

“Over the years I’ve learned a lot, developed my game a lot with the UP team.”

Another obstacle for Juan to face is his newfound independence. His parents and friends plan to visit him in December once their visas to travel to Japan are approved, but for the most part, he will have to learn taking care of himself.

“Living independent – it’s something I’m really not used to. Kahit (Even) dorm or condo, that’s not my thing. I’m used to going home to my family every day after classes, after practice,” he admitted.

“But as you get older you would want to experience [other things].”

His dad is confident he can manage.

“I think his level of maturity is good,” Bert said. “At some point, the children themselves have to figure it out when it is time. Anna (Juan’s mom) and I were just there to support, but the final decision was really up to him. If there is one thing I would ask, it is for our kababayans (fellow Filipinos) in Tokyo [to] please show him some love.”

For his part, Juan sounds invigorated by the new chapter in his story.

“I’m offered the challenge; I’ve been waiting for this since I was 18 years old. I feel like now’s the perfect time, honestly,” he said.

“I’ve experienced a lot of things in life – the ups and downs – but I’m excited.”

Another thing to be really excited about?

“I’ll be playing in Tokyo, that’s the life!” he said with pure bliss.

The next step has arrived. – Rappler.com

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