Jamie Marie Roxas: Choosing to stay Lasallian

Choosing which university to play for is a tough decision to make for every student athlete as they enter a new chapter in their lives. Their future as professionals is not the only thing on the line. But also, having the right opportunities to contribute to the team, represent the school, and make an impact in the league are just few of the other considerations that an athlete should ponder on.

Lady Archer Rookie Jamie Marie Roxas was caught in that kind of situation.

After finishing her elementary and secondary education in De La Salle-Zobel (DLSZ), she has chosen to continue representing the colors of green and white as she suits up for the Lady Archers in the upcoming UAAP 77.

It has been a solid basketball career so far for Roxas after leading the charge for the Junior Lady Archers. DLSZ’s prized center has been dominant in both ends of the court using her height and skills as an advantage over the other players. After a second runner-up finish in the 44th Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (WNCAA) Basketball Tournament, the DLSZ Junior Lady Archers Captain ended her WNCAA stint with a spot in the competition’s Mythical Five.

With her junior basketball career in the books, she found herself in the middle of a crossroad as several universities, namely ADMU, DLSU, and UST, offered her a spot in their respective basketball squads. Her head coach in Zobel, who happens to be an assistant coach in DLSU, saw her potential to participate in a more competitive league and encouraged her to play for La Salle. This motivation from her high school basketball mentor played as a factor in her decision. Also, in terms of academic considerations, La Salle’s BS Psychology program caught her interest, which was a crucial factor in her decision.

Having an experience with the sport as early as sixth grade, Roxas honed her skills together with her father and brother, both of which were former champions in the UAAP. With her family supporting her in every step of the way, Roxas is bound to play inspired basketball in the league.

The Lady Archers, who recently emerged as champions in the previous season, are looking forward to retain the championship. Roxas certainly feels the pressure after a failed title defense in her final year for the Junior Lady Archers. “I was part of a champion team rin but we lost. Mahirap siyang ituloy,” Roxas expressed.

Despite this, she vows to give everything for the squad. “I can work hard. [I will] play my best sa games,” the Lady Archer rookie center mentions. “Ipakita ko sa kanila na kaya ko ‘to. That we can go for champions.”

With the UAAP 77 kicking off soon in July, Roxas hopes that she can make the most of her decision: to be a successful Lasallian and to prosper as a Lady Archer.

with reports from Teresa de Borja.