In NCAA Season 101, there’s no denying that San Beda University rookie Agjanti Miller has been turning heads across the league.
Here are five reasons why he deserves to win both the Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards this season.
Carrying the Entire Offense of the Red Lions
The 6-foot-4 guard made an immediate impact for the San Beda Red Lions in their first game of the season last October 1.
Against the Season 100 finalists, the College of Saint Benilde Blazers, Janti dropped 16 points and 6 rebounds to help secure the debut win.
What many thought might have been a one-off performance quickly turned into consistency. The 21-year-old Fil-American maintained his strong form, becoming the team’s primary offensive option under Head Coach Yuri Escueta.
After eight games in the elimination round, the rookie tallied 158 points, 47 rebounds, five assists, five steals, and three blocks, while committing 20 turnovers.
With San Beda holding a 6-2 record, Miller clearly stands three steps ahead of his fellow rookies in terms of scoring production.
His all-around performance has also placed him in early MVP conversations alongside Mapúa’s Clint Escamis and CSB’s Allen Liwag.
The Modern Point Guard Has Arrived
In a league that, let’s be honest, hasn’t shown much love for “Foreign Student-Athletes” in recent years, seeing another Fil-foreigner thrive in Philippine college basketball is truly refreshing.
Players like Janti often take their talents to the UAAP, so having him in the NCAA adds a new dimension, not only boosting the century-old league’s marketability but also showcasing the evolution of the modern point guard in local hoops.
At 6-foot-4, his size and build are rare for “Philippine college basketball.” His closest comparison? Former Ateneo de Manila University standout Dwight Ramos.
Both share similar physical profiles and skill sets that blend athleticism with finesse which is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted in the NCAA.
In the U.S., 6’4” is the minimum height for a point guard. Here, Miller’s presence is redefining expectations.
Giving Fans Fresh Faces to Cheer For
From the powerful rebounds and putbacks of Allen Liwag (CSB Blazers) to the crafty crossovers of Clint Escamis (Mapúa Cardinals), NCAA fans have had plenty to celebrate but now, they have another name to chant.
While San Beda also features veterans like Yukien Andrada and fellow Fil-Am Jomel Puno, Miller brings a distinct aura and swagger to the court.
Alongside rising stars such as Jonathan “Titing” Manalili of Letran, Jhuniel Dela Rama of San Sebastian, and Patrick Sleat of Perpetual Help, Janti is blossoming at exactly the right time, bringing new energy and star power to the league.
A Vital Piece in San Beda’s Title Quest
San Beda last hoisted the NCAA championship trophy during Season 99 (2023–24), when James Payosing was crowned Finals MVP.
Now, with Miller leading the charge, the Red Lions look poised to return to the Finals podium once again.
Having remained consistent Final Four contenders in recent years, San Beda may have finally found its missing piece in Miller which is exactly the spark they need to reclaim their long-lost glory and overcome the dreaded “Final Four hump.”
Being “That Guy” in Season 101
To put it simply, the reason why Agjanti Miller might just win both the Rookie and MVP awards this season is because he’s that guy in NCAA Season 101.
Whatever the conversation—scoring, leadership, clutch plays—his name is bound to come up. Miller’s combination of talent, aggressiveness, and unique skill set makes him stand out from everyone else on the floor.
Sure, Allen Liwag has been dominant and is the other choice to win MVP, tallying 82 points, 45 rebounds, 11 assists, four blocks, two steals, and just eight turnovers in 5 games.
While Titing Manalili of Letran has been just as impressive with 95 points, 45 rebounds, 77 assists, and 13 steals in 8 games is also one of the ROTY favorites.
Statistically, both are legitimate contenders.
But with the elimination round still ongoing, Miller’s ceiling seems higher. His career-high 28 points might not even be his best yet and he looks ready to break more scoring records before the season ends.
Silver Lining: San Beda Found a Gem
San Beda University has long been home to NCAA legends: Robert Bolick, Calvin Oftana, the Semerad twins (Tony and David), Art Dela Cruz, Baser Amer, and Jayvee Mocon just to name a few.
Now, it looks like they’ve discovered another gem in Agjanti Miller.
He’s still young and will continue to evolve, but his skill, poise, and confidence already show flashes of a one-of-one talent.
Beyond the flashy crossovers, deep three-pointers, and undeniable on-court charisma, one question remains:
How many championships can he deliver to San Beda?
