Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
JARON ON hopes to provide a boost to the national basketball team after being named in the 12-man squad for the upcoming Borneo Cup at the end of the month.
Having made his national debut last year at the same competition, he has taken it up a notch with training abroad while furthering his studies in Kuala Lumpur.
"I began training at SFL Performance Center back in October, and since then, it's been a consistent and focused journey of development," said On in an interview with BruSports News.
"In November, I was also given the opportunity to join the Johor Southern Tigers (JST) for their team practice sessions.
"Being part of both the SFL and JST environments has given me exposure to professional-level training and allowed me to work alongside experienced athletes and coaches," he added.
"The structure, discipline, and intensity here have really pushed me to elevate my game and commit fully to my growth as a player," continued On.
When asked on how training is different when compared to Brunei, he replied: "The intensity here is on a whole different level. The pace of the game is much faster, and the players are more physical and competitive.
"It's been a big adjustment from what I'm used to in Brunei, but it's exactly the kind of challenge I'm looking for to take my game to the next level," added On.
The 18-year-old feels that he has improved over the past couple of months and hopes to make a positive impact for the team.
"I've definitely seen improvements since arriving in Kuala Lumpur, both physically and mentally. But I know this is just the beginning—I've still got a lot of work ahead," said On.
"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to train under Coach Chee Choong (Personal Trainer), who's been instrumental in my development, as well as Coach Dany (Head Coach of JST) and the players who've been incredibly supportive and welcoming during practices," he added.
Brunei will be hosting the Borneo Cup at the BBA Court in Batu Bersurat from May 29 – June 1.
When asked on how he has prepared himself this time around, he replied: "Preparation for the Borneo Cup has been a key focus for me over the past few months.
"I've been putting in the work both on and off the court—strength and conditioning sessions at SFL, and intense practices with JST have all been part of my routine.
"I'm also spending time sharpening my basketball IQ, and working closely with my coaches to fine-tune the details of my game," he added.
"Mentally, I'm staying locked in—focusing on consistency, confidence, and staying hungry. I know the competition will be tough, but I'm doing everything I can to be physically, mentally, and strategically ready to compete at my best.
"People may have their doubts, and that's okay—I use that as fuel. I'm not here to talk or make promises; I'm here to put in the work, stay focused, and let my game speak for itself.
"Doubt me? Watch me. Every time I step on the court, I'm proving to myself—and anyone watching—that I belong here and that I'm only getting better," concluded On.
