FOR those players who want to elevate their game to the highest level, there?s no better way than competing against some of the best.

Japeth Aguilar has experienced the rare opportunities of playing against some of the best players in the National Basketball Association, like Shawn Marion of the Miami Heat, Antawn Walker and former Ginebra import Chris Alexander.

?I played with them when I was in Chicago,? Aguilar told Standard Today.

The 6?8? Aguilar is one of those success stories among second-generation players. He is now playing for the Western Kentucky University in the US National Collegiate Athletic Association.

His father, Peter Aguilar, was a mere footnote of Ginebra San Miguel?s popularity in the Philippine Basketball Association.

For Aguilar, his dad isn?t just his personal mentor but a role model as well.

?He?s my idol,? Aguilar said in an online interview with Standard Today. ?Anybody could pick any superstar playing basketball today, but he?s truly a role model and he has been my inspiration.?

He has listed other plans in the near future?play in the PBA, represent the RP Team and marry his fianc?e Jessica Magley.

?I am planning to marry my fianc?e and also pursue a possible career in the PBA,? said Aguilar, who is expected to become one of the most sought after players once he decides to turn pro. Rey Joble