Former Gilas Youth star Dalph Panopio declares for 2025 PBA Draft to pursue lifelong dream

Former Gilas Pilipinas youth standout Dalph Panopio is ready to take the next big step in his basketball journey—fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). The 25-year-old guard has officially declared for the upcoming 2025 PBA Rookie Draft on September 7 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.

Panopio recently worked out with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, under the watchful eye of head coach Tim Cone, with none other than Ginebra legend Greg Slaughter by his side.

For Panopio, this moment is not just about his career, but also about family.

“My dad and family worked so hard to give me a chance to pursue my dreams in basketball and education. It’s been a dream of my father to see me play in the Philippines, and I feel this is the perfect time to do it,” he shared.

Born in Italy to Filipino parents, Panopio first made his mark on the international stage with Gilas Youth during the 2019 FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup in Greece. There, he averaged 5.0 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in seven games, sharing the court with current Gilas stalwarts Kai Sotto, AJ Edu, and Carl Tamayo.

Dalph Panopio has set to Join for @pbaconnect Rookie Draft

“Super excited! I’m going to give my all to whatever team picks me, and to @smartgilasph if I’m honored to be called to serve again,” Panopio Said

Source: Tiebreaker Times@officialSBPinc what your plan for panopio pic.twitter.com/oP2ojSdwqY

— Miz Basket (@jamballe0340033) August 26, 2025

His career since then has spanned three continents, giving him a unique basketball résumé. He suited up for Cal State Bakersfield in the US NCAA, played for Suwon KT in the Korean Basketball League (KBL), and most recently, starred for Mumbai T. in the Indian National Basketball League (INBL), where he posted averages of 14.9 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.7 rebounds in nine appearances.

Reflecting on his diverse path, Panopio credits each stop for molding him into the player he is today.

“I learned from my upbringing in the Italian and European basketball culture, then I had the chance to play with great Americans in prep school, like Keegan and Kris Murray. My NCAA Division I experience was also invaluable, and I’m proud to say I graduated with a college degree. Professional basketball requires discipline and adaptability, and that’s what I try to live by every day.”

Now, as draft day approaches, Panopio stands on the brink of turning his father’s dream—and his own—into reality. With his international pedigree, academic background, and hunger to prove himself on Philippine soil, he is eager to show that his long journey has prepared him for this very moment.

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