PBA: RJ Abarrientos braces for Jerom Lastimosa, Magnolia

Jerom Lastimosa and Magnolia Hotshots huddle up during a game against the Meralco Bolts in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines— RJ Abarrientos believes Jerom Lastimosa’s emergence in the PBA comes as no surprise after watching the Magnolia guard develop since their UAAP days.

The Barangay Ginebra playmaker spoke highly of Lastimosa following the Gin Kings’ 84-75 win over Meralco in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup on Friday, two days before they face Magnolia in another chapter of the Manila Clasico at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“I’m not even surprised with Jerom’s play because he’s a talented player,” Abarrientos said. “He can do a lot of things and he controls the offense for Magnolia. He’s the youngest so we’ll look at him in the scouting report.”

Abarrientos has been familiar with Lastimosa’s game since their UAAP days in 2022.

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ RJ Abarrientos during a game vs Meralco Bolts in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

He starred for Far Eastern University, while Lastimosa established himself as Adamson’s go-to guard before both eventually found their way to the PBA.

Having watched Lastimosa’s growth over the years, Abarrientos knows exactly what Ginebra will be up against on Sunday.

Still, the former Commissioner’s Cup Best Player of the Conference is simply happy to see his fellow UAAP standout thriving after overcoming injuries early in his professional career.

“I’m just very happy for Jerom that he got back from his previous injuries. I’m very happy that he’s my batchmate. I’ll be seeing him and I hope it keeps on going,” Abarrientos said.

“Alam ko na sobrang tibay ng player na ‘yan.”