Magnolia signs Jerom Lastimosa to three-year deal despite ongoing ACL recovery

Magnolia has officially signed Jerom Lastimosa to a three-year rookie contract on Friday.

The signing comes after Lastimosa was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 PBA Draft.

Lastimosa was with his agent Edgar Mangahas, Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero, and team manager Alvin Patrimonio.

At 26 years old, Lastimosa, hailing from Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, is currently in the recovery phase from a left ACL injury he sustained back in October 2023.

“Sabi naman is nasa around 70 to 80 percent na ako,” Lastimosa shared after the draft. His determination to return to peak condition reflects his commitment to making an impact once he fully recovers.

The signing of Lastimosa comes at a crucial time for Magnolia, which recently traded Jio Jalalon to Northport.

The move opened a spot in the backcourt, making Lastimosa’s role even more significant.

Once he is back to full health, the 5-foot-11 guard is expected to play a key role in the Hotshots’ guard rotation.