With UP’s mantra of honor and excellence, Javi wanted to bring the title to its home and end a 35-year drought in the UAAP.

“It’s my goal to win a championship for UP before I leave. I’m really grateful for the opportunity that the university has given me, with the support from the coaches, management and community,” the eager Javi shared.

“I’m just really grateful for the opportunity that the university has given me, with the support from the coaches, management and community,” he added.

For Javi being one of the representatives of UP is one thing, but knowing that having a chance to play with his younger brothers is another thing to look upon too.

“Another dream of mine is to play with my brothers Joe and Jordi ’cause I haven’t played alongside with them for a while,” he affirmed.

Meanwhile, his brother Juan GDL is yet to rule in ineligible for the UAAP after being part of the roster of the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards in the 2020 Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 President’s Cup back in October. 

Javi GDL, standing 6-foot-5 is one of the Gilas Cadet members who trampled the Thai team in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 where he averaged 14.0 points and 2.5 rebounds per game.

Moreover, his plays and scheme in his collegiate playing career will be a great force for UP as his stats for the half of UAAP Season 82 records at 59% of shooting inside the arc, 43% from three, and 52% overall.

“I felt very short during my whole career playing in the UAAP and I feel like I can show how I really play and maximize my full potential in my last playing year,” Javi concluded.