Reinhard Jumamoy’s shooting is getting better, but he’s also working on stopping opponents. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Reinhard Jumamoy’s offense is finally catching up to his reputation. But if you ask the National University guard, it’s still the other side of the court that he keeps his focus on.

The 22-year-old gunner from Cebu, entering his third season with the Bulldogs, has been putting in extra hours after practice, trying to sharpen his shooting touch. The effort paid off when he won a three-point shooting contest at the sidelines of the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.

“I really want to be more consistent in that department,” said the 5-foot-11 guard. “I always stay after practice for extra shooting because I want to be a bigger threat offensively.”

That mindset has translated into modest but noticeable preseason numbers: 7.5 points, 2.9 assists, and 1.9 rebounds per game. And while those may not scream star status, they mark a steady evolution for a player once crowned MVP in both the UAAP Juniors and National Basketball Training Center circuits.

“I feel more comfortable now in the college game,” he said. “That’s why I’m more aggressive in attacking and contributing to help the team.”

But Jumamoy insists the real work is to improve his contribution on defense, the heart of NU’s identity under coach Jeff Napa.

“My main focus right now is defense,” he said. “Coach Jeff and I talk about improving different areas, but what he always emphasizes is defense first.”

It’s a sign of maturity that a player known for scoring in high school now embraces the gritty, disciplined play NU is known for.

“Offense and playmaking will always be there,” Jumamoy said. “But how will my teammates and I get better if we don’t defend? That’s our team’s main weapon.”

In a system that demands relentless effort on both ends, Jumamoy understands that his improved shooting is just a bonus.