Jun Ross facts for kids

Jun (Lyle M.) Ross Jr. was a famous Filipino basketball player. He was born on July 14, 1949, and passed away on November 24, 2009.

He was born to Lyle Ross Sr., an American soldier, and Maddamou, a Filipino native. People often called him "Jun." He became a well-known player for the Ateneo Blue Eagles basketball team. Jun graduated from Ateneo de Manila University in 1971. He also played for the 1971 MICAA Meralco basketball team.

In the early 1970s, Jun moved to the United States. He worked in business in both New Jersey and California. He passed away peacefully on November 24, 2009. He had two children, Richard and Megan.

Jun Ross's Early Basketball Career

Jun Ross Jr. began his basketball journey as a co-captain. He played for the Ateneo Midgets team. This team had an amazing record of 24 wins and only 1 loss.

High School and College Success

From 1963 to 1967, Jun was part of the Ateneo Juniors team. As co-captain, they won the NCAA championship. They had an undefeated record, meaning they didn't lose any games. In 1966 and 1967, he was chosen for the NCAA Juniors Mythical Five. This means he was one of the top five players in the league.

During his college years, Jun played for the senior Blue Eagle team. He was a member for all four years at Ateneo de Manila University. He was also part of the NCAA selection team for two years. Many people remember the 1969 NCAA champion team as one of Ateneo's strongest ever. Jun was a key player on that championship team.

More Than Just Basketball

Even though basketball was his main sport, Jun also ran cross-country. In high school, he won two championships in this sport. He was also a member of the track and field team from 1964 to 1971.

Jun won many medals in track and field events. He competed in the long jump, high jump, and triple jump. He also ran in the 4 x 100 relay and 4 x 400 relay races. Overall, he earned 16 gold medals, 2 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals. These were all from the NCAA track and field competitions.

Throughout his time playing basketball at Ateneo, Jun proudly wore the number 7 jersey.

Life After Ateneo

In 1971, Jun played for the MICAA Meralco basketball team. This team was sponsored by 7-UP. That same year, his team won the MICAA Championship.

After moving to the United States, Jun stopped playing professional basketball. He started a career as a businessman. He managed several businesses in both New Jersey and California.

Hall of Fame Recognition

On December 8, 2000, Jun was honored for his sports achievements. He was inducted into the Ateneo de Manila Sports Hall of Fame. This special event took place at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center in the Philippines.

Jun Ross's Family Life

Jun was first married in the Philippines. He had a son named Richard before he moved to the United States. After leaving the Philippines, he settled on the East Coast, mainly in New Jersey.

In 1985, he married his long-time girlfriend, Jan. In 1988, they had a daughter named Megan. Later, in the early 1990s, Jun married Jane Alcala. He remained married to Jane until he passed away. In 2000, Jun moved to California with his wife Jane, his stepdaughter Grace, and his grandson Christian.

Even though he lived far from his home country, Jun always remained a true Blue Eagle fan. He often talked about his days at Ateneo with great fondness. He was very proud to be part of the Ateneo Sports Hall of Fame. He also kept in touch with many of his old teammates and classmates.

Jun passed away peacefully on November 24, 2009. He was surrounded by his loving family. He left behind a great sports legacy and a family who loved him very much.

He is survived by his wife Jane, his daughter Megan, and his son Richard.