The final buzzer of Lyceum’s Season 101 campaign also marked the end of an era for John Barba, whose eight-year journey with the Pirates came to a close after their 91–67 loss to San Beda in the NCAA quarterfinals. The veteran guard couldn’t hold back tears in the last minutes, knowing the moment carried the weight of graduating teammates, sky-high expectations, and a crowd rooting for one last upset.
Barba’s LPU chapter stretches back to high school, where he claimed the Season 95 MVP and led the Junior Pirates to the finals—also against San Beda. His collegiate career was just as decorated: a Season 100 Mythical Five selection, three straight Final Four runs, and a legacy of grit that cemented him as one of Lyceum’s most enduring faces.
Even after going undrafted in the PBA, Barba isn’t closing the door on the pros. He said his dream remains the same—to break into the PBA—and he’s hopeful a team will give him a shot. If not, he’s ready to explore other leagues to showcase his game. “Alam ko may plano si God. Pero syempre, pangarap ng bawat basketball player ang PBA,” he said.
But while Barba and other veterans take their bow, he sees no shortage of promise in Intramuros. With young talents like Matthew Rubico and Roger Ondoa rising, Barba believes LPU’s future seasons will stay competitive. “Tingin ko, maganda pa ang future ng LPU,” he said—leaving behind a program he lifted, and one he trusts will keep climbing.
Image from Vyn Radovan