Another Filipino-American hooper has been making waves in the US.
Filipino-American JJ Mandaquit has been selected to join Team USA’s men’s U16 national team which is set to compete in the FIBA U16 Americas Championship next week in Mexico.
Mandaquit will join a loaded Team USA roster which features several five-star recruits, including the son of former NBA player Carlos Boozer.
“I knew coming in that everyone is super high level here,” Mandaquit told On3.com. “So, I’ve just been trying to do the little things, play great defense, and take care of the ball.”
The 6-foot-1 Mandaquit is currently playing high school basketball for Real Salt Lake Academy in Utah where he put up 15.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.9 steals per game.
His game this past season in the US has turned heads as he has reportedly received college offers from Division I programs such as Hawaii, Portland, Stanford, and Washington State.
“I’ve gotten more athletic and stronger over the last year,” said Mandaquit. “And then my pace, the game has really slowed down for me, and I’m not getting rushed as things develop.”
Mandaquit was also present during the 2023 SMART-NBTC National Finals, averaging 16.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 3.8 steals in five games for the Fil-Am Nation Select.
According to Fil-Am Nation Select, Mandaquit was able to get a Philippine passport before turning 16 years old, meaning that the crafty guard can still be eligible for Gilas Pilipinas.
This, however, is provided that Mandaquit no longer suits up for Team USA in the U18 or seniors’ teams.