Pro hooper, 2-time NCAA champion Jimly Lantaya dies at 24

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'Thank you, Jimly, for your dedication and contributions to the Letran community,' Letran says in a statement

MANILA, Philippines – Promising big man Jimly Lantaya died at the young age of 24 on Saturday, August 2, following a tough battle with thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection, plainly described as life-threatening bulging and tearing of the aorta walls.

The 6-foot-9 center won NCAA championships in 2022 and 2023 as part of the recent Letran Knights dynasty, backing up the likes of Louie Sangalang, Christian Fajarito, and Pao Javillonar, among other anchors.

“We join the Lantaya family in mourning the passing of Jimly Lantaya, a former Letran Knight who proudly brought honor to the Colegio as part of the NCAA championship teams in Seasons 97 and 98,” read a Letran statement.

“Thank you, Jimly, for your dedication and contributions to the Letran community. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.”

Following an operation last March 25, Lantaya publicly sought help on April 12, as his hospital bills and doctors’ fees hit P2 million.

Various prominent former collegiate players expressed their condolences, including Letran champion guard Fran Yu and Gilas Pilipinas star Kevin Quiambao, Lantaya’s high school teammate with the championship-winning Nazareth-NU Bullpups in the UAAP.

Outside the amateur ranks, Lantaya also honed his craft in the pros with Cotabato in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League and General Santos in the Pilipinas Super League. – Rappler.com