From Digos to Destiny: Jhonard Clarito Breaks Jaworski's Longstanding PBA Rebounding Record

 

For over a generation, Filipino basketball fans held in reverence the record set by living legend Robert Jaworski—20 rebounds in a game, the most ever by a guard in PBA history. But in a thrilling semifinal clash between Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and NLEX Road Warriors, that historic mark was finally surpassed.

Digos City’s rising star, Jhonard Clarito, pulled down an astonishing  21 rebounds, powering Rain or Shine to a hard-fought 92-89 win and etching his name in the record books. The moment not only sealed a semifinal victory but also symbolized the emergence of a new era in Philippine basketball.

Clarito, the PBA’s Most Improved Player of 2024 , has steadily risen through the ranks since being drafted 17th overall in the 2022 PBA Draft. A product of Cor Jesu College in Digos City, Clarito has become known for his gritty style of play, remarkable consistency, and unyielding hustle—traits that mirror those of his fellow Digos native and Ginebra star Scottie Thompson.

Before making waves in the PBA, Clarito was a dominant force in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL)with the San Juan Knights, leading them to multiple championships. His knack for double-doubles and team-first mentality made him a fan favorite early on, and he has carried that same energy into the pros.

Rain or Shine’s coaching staff and fans have been quick to commend Clarito's unrelenting motor on both ends of the floor. His historic rebounding night is only the latest chapter in what has been an inspiring journey.

Cor Jesu College basketball coach Babols Senarillo who mentored Clarito during his early playing years, expressed heartfelt pride. “Jhonard's dedication and hard work have paid off, and I couldn't be prouder of his journey from Digos to the big stage,” said Senarillos.

Clarito’s ascent stands as a powerful testament to what small-town grit and big-time dreams can achieve. His record-breaking feat not only honors the legacy of those who came before him but also lights the path for the next generation of hopeful athletes from Digos and beyond.(Bob Braceros)

Digos City's Rising Star Jhonard Clarito Named PBA's Most Improved Player of 2024

 

Jhonard Clarito, a versatile basketball player hailing from Digos City, Davao del Sur, has been honored as the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) Most Improved Player for 2024. Playing for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, Clarito’s rise in the league has been both unexpected and inspiring, proving that hard work and dedication can yield incredible results.

Drafted 17th overall in the second round of the 2022 PBA draft, the former Cor Jesu College standout has displayed a well-rounded game and remarkable consistency over the past two seasons. Clarito’s success as a low-draft pick, combined with his solid performances on the court, earned him this prestigious award, marking him as one of the league’s emerging talents.

Much like his townmate, Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson, Clarito is known for his skills in rebounding and scoring—a reputation he built during his amateur days with the San Juan Knights, where he helped lead the team to championships in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL). Clarito’s commitment to delivering double-doubles has not only advanced his team’s efforts but also impressed fans and coaches across the league.

Reflecting on his former player’s achievement, Cor Jesu College basketball team coach Babols Senarillos expressed his pride and joy. "Jhonard's dedication and hard work have paid off, and I couldn't be prouder of his journey from Digos to the big stage," said Senarillos. Clarito’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes from Digos City and beyond, showing that big dreams are within reach for those willing to chase them.(Bob Braceros)

Digos City makes history as Davraa representative in Palaro 2024 secondary basketball

DAVAO CITY---The many years of dominance of Davao City as representative of the Davao Regional Athletic Association in the Palarong Pambansa secondary basketball has officially ended this year.

Digos City Trekkers made history as Davraa representative to the Palaro in Cebu City in July after they upset the home team Davao City Durians in their championship battle 72-69 last April 6.

The team represented by Cor Jesu College showed grit and determination in their morale-boosting win and championship.

Cor Jesu Head coach Babols Senarillos told this reporter their focus on their goal to win the crown and their extra work on defense are the two main factors in their upset win.

"Focus lang sa goal, Trust the system, Tas discipline sa depensa," Sinarillos said.

Now that their school is given the chance to get the gold in Palaro, Senarillos said they will use the same strategy but they will put more efforts in Cebu since the competition there is much tougher than in Davao City.

In a Facebook post, Senarillos also took time to thanks all those who supported their journey in this year's Davraa.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)