Laput playing with newfound confidence

MAGNOLIA’S young slotman James Laput is enjoying every bit of the PBA On Tour. And it reflects on the way he plays for the Hotshots who remain unbeaten in eight preseason games.

The 6-foot-10 Laput is averaging over 13 points and 11 rebounds in 28 minutes of playing time per game. He has not played this well for Magnolia since arriving at the team through a trade in 2021.

James Laput (right) of Magnolia makes his move against Raymond Almazan of Meralco during their PBA on Tour preseason game, on July 2, 2023, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. PBA IMAGE 

The former La Salle center credits the team’s coaching staff and his teammates for helping him stay grounded, motivated and driven to improve each day.

“It’s (PBA On Tour) no doubt a big boost to my performance with the confidence in myself, from my teammates, coaches, management, even fans. It’s truly helping put to fruition so much of the hard work that’s been put in, day in and day out,” Laput said to The Manila Times on Tuesday, July 11.

Laput also thanked Magnolia coach Chito Victolero for trusting and encouraging him to keep working on his game.

He likewise credited Magnolia’s veteran players such as Rafi Reavis, Paul Lee, Calvin Abueva, Mark Barroca and Rome de la Rosa for their guidance and helping him grow as a player.

“I gotta shoutout all of them, because that’s just how brotherly the culture is here in Magnolia. Guys such as Rafi always being approachable and giving tips when I have questions about certain big man defense. Paul always keeping me in check to execute certain screen motions when he’s clearly going to shoot a three which have become a habit and translated to the game pick and rolls, Kuya Mark and Calvin always giving me advice for even when I do things correctly, because there’s always more I can do,” said Laput, who was selected eighth overall by Terrafirma in the 2021 PBA Rookie Draft.

“Since day one of being traded to Magnolia, Rome de la Rosa, he’s talked me through it all and related with me through all the ups and downs, DNPs (did not play), injuries, mental battles, random 20-minute games, long grueling trainings. Through all of it, he’s been my big brother,” he added.