Whatever fans want to call him, CJ Perez will continue making a name for himself in the PBA.
From his days with San Sebastian in the NCAA to the PBA, CJ Perez has been called many names, most notably “Baby Beast” and “The Predator.”
His game merits those monikers.
When he first burst into the collegiate basketball scene, Perez was called “Baby Beast” since he resembled the fearlessness of another Stag superstar in Calvin Abueva.
When he finally emerged from the shadows of “The Beast,” the San Miguel gunner became his own man and earned the nickname “The Predator.”
But his basketball monikers only represent his alter ego, his persona on the court that has allowed him to become the PBA and Gilas star that he is today.
There is more to him than the aforementioned.
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One Sports reached out to Perez to ask him the story behind his real name: Jaymar.
But Perez admitted he does not really know the entire story. He can only surmise that the “Mar” came from his mother’s name, Marilyn.
“Jay” must be the name of the father he has not met.
“Hindi ko alam 'yung totoong istorya,” said Perez.
“Marilyn kasi ang pangalan ng mama ko. So siguro, 'yung dad ko, Jay 'yung start ng pangalan. Pero hindi ko kasi kilala," he went on.
CJay, not CJ
While pundits anointed him “Baby Beast” and "The Predator,” the 30-year-old cager made sure he goes by CJay.
This after seeing the nickname CJay in his birth certificate when he was still in grade school. Since he was born in Kowloon in Hong Kong, there is an option for a nickname.
It just stuck with him.
“Actually, 'yung CJay kasi parang nakita ko sa birth certificate, may CJay. So 'yun ang ipinalayaw ko sa sarili ko,” said the 6-foot-2 player.
“Nakita ko lang sa Hong Kong birth certificate ko, may nickname. Ang nakalagay, CJay.”
Asked if he would change his name if given a chance, Perez answered in the negative.
After all, that name has already two PBA championships, three scoring titles, a Finals MVP award and a Best Player of the Conference nod.
“Masaya ako sa pangalan ko. At saka 'yun na 'yung tumatak,” said Perez.
But whatever people call him — Baby Beast, The Predator or anything else — Perez will just continue wreaking havoc for the Beermen in the PBA.