NorthPort’s JM Calma rules PBA Obstacle Challenge

JM Calma, one of the rising stars in the PBA, showcased his confidence and skill as he emerged victorious in the 2024 PBA All-Star Big Men Obstacle Course Challenge held at the University of St. La Salle Gym on Saturday, March 23.

The NorthPort forward, a standout from San Sebastian College and the No. 6 draft pick in 2021, displayed flawless execution in the final round of the competition, cementing his status as the third champion of this challenging event presented by Arena Plus. Previous winners include Beau Belga in 2018 and 2019, and Dave Marcelo in 2022.

Calma proved to be the fastest participant in the obstacle course, which included dribbling through a slalom course, passing, and shooting. His impressive time of 26 seconds in the final round secured him the championship title and the accompanying prize of P30,000.

Although Rain or Shine’s Santi Santillan and Magnolia’s James Laput made it to the championship round, they had to settle for runner-up honors with clockings of 29 and 39 seconds, respectively.

Calma outperformed his competitors in the finale, besting Moala Tautua from San Miguel and Ralph Cup from Ginebra in the elimination matchups. Despite a strong start, Cu was eliminated in the second round after defeating reigning champion Marcelo in the initial round.

Laput earned his spot in the final round by prevailing over Clifford Jopia from Blackwater and Isaac Go from Terrafirma, while Santillan secured his place by defeating Raymond Almazan from Meralco and Justin Arana from Converge.

Transitioning from the matchup format in the eliminations to a time trial race in the finale added another layer of excitement to the event, highlighting the skill and speed of the participants in a thrilling conclusion.