A talent coveted around the world.
Jack Animam has proven yet again that she is one of the best hoopers to come out of the Philippines. The Gilas Pilipinas anchor is set to continue her professional career overseas after signing with Wuhan Shengfan of the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA). The 6-foot-5 center is no stranger to playing in a foreign land. She played collegiate ball in Taiwan, gained experience in the US, and suited up for European clubs, in Serbia and France to be exact.
Nonetheless, becoming the first Filipino import in the WCBA is a milestone that stands out in Animam’s colorful basketball journey. Knowing how huge this must be for the Malolos, Bulacan native, Animam’s Gilas teammates celebrated the moment and sent their congratulations through Instagram.
Shooting guard Khate Castillo joked around with Jack, which might be an indirect way of saying how much they’ll miss each other.
“Sana kilala mo pa ako ‘pag umuwi ka ng ‘Pinas,” she wrote
“’Sus, ako lang naman di mo lab,” Animam playfully replied.
Another Gilas member in Sofia Roman is clearly pumped up for the 24-year-old pivot.
“Let’s gooooo,” posted Roman.
Team captain Janine Pontejos expressed how proud she is having been roommates with a world-class athlete.
“My Roomie,” stated Pontejos.
Fellow National University alumnus Andrea Tongco also gave her well-wishes.
“Congratulations, bes,” wrote the Gilas guard.
Of course, Jack also acknowledged a message that came straight from her hometown of Lugam, Malolos.
Before heading out to China, however, Animam will be joining Gilas for the 42nd edition of the William Jones Cup, which will take place in Taiwan from August 5 to August 9.
(GM)