Love is not roses; it is Repetition
by: Denzel Caliao
Coach Jess did not just fall in love with the game but also the people who gathered.
True love is not decorative but consistent. Coach Jess Linus Evangelio honed his basketball career for those who repeatedly stayed, supported, and believed in his passion. Every bounce is an ounce of affection he offers to the people who stood with him every game, adjusted their schedule to show support, and celebrated his small and big victories. Coach did not just fall for basketball; he fell in love with what he did—connecting his family together.
Hoops became a hole for opportunities, and the court became his home ground. Yet he always goes home to his loyal solace—his family. Behind a strict, goal-oriented, and driven coach lies a passionate father, a loving husband, a best friend to his brother, and an obedient son. For every game he played, they were there, not just to watch but to show love.
ENERGY BOOSTER
“I am very motivated and hyped knowing that someone has my back always in coaching the team, knowing that we have the same mindset to help the kids reach their full potential as athletes and develop them as better individuals,” said the coach. All the games he had were successful because of the people who urged him to do better. When training is hard, he has his partner beside him to achieve hardbound titles.
EVER SINCE ELEM
He started as young as his elementary days in building a great foundation for basketball. He did it not just because of his passionate skills but also because of his folks, who watched every game he won and lost. During Palarong Pambansa 2025, the coach’s parents flew from Davao to Ilocos just to see him make history for Region 11. Eating outside in restaurants became their celebration for every step he claimed.
LOYAL LOYOLA
The coach shared that he plans to stay at Ateneo de Davao University to build a better structure for his coaching career, shape more athletes, and inspire others that consistency for what you love is the key to achieving what you wish. For him, building a meaningful coaching career is not about chasing louder opportunities but about patiently laying down a strong foundation—season after season, athlete after athlete. He believes that real growth happens in repetition: in showing up every day at the gym, in correcting the same mistakes with the same care, and in choosing to stay even when leaving would be easier.