Top prospect Nic Cabañero weighing options locally, overseas

Outgoing UST Growling Tigers star Nicael Cabañero is keeping his options open as he inches closer to the next phase of his basketball career, saying that playing overseas remains a dream, but one that will depend on whether the right opportunity presents itself.

The 22-year-old Cebuano guard, who has emerged as one of the UAAP’s most dynamic scorers in recent seasons, said in an interview with Abante Sports that he is open to multiple paths after his collegiate stint. 

While he hopes for a chance abroad, he is equally aware that carving out a professional future sometimes means adapting to what the basketball landscape has to offer.

“Gusto ko talaga makapaglaro overseas, pero hindi naman ako ang magde-decide nun,” Cabañero said. “Kung hindi, dito ako sa PBA o sa MPBL kasi aantay pa ako ng ilang years for the PBA draft.”

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End of the road.

The UST Growling Tigers fall short against the UP Fighting Maroons in a bruising, neck-and-neck showdown, drawing the curtain on their UAAP Season 88 campaign. #GoUSTe pic.twitter.com/AUzOGQt6wJ

— Varsitarian Sports (@VSportsUST) December 3, 2025

Cabañero has been UST’s offensive centerpiece since his rookie year, known for his fearless drives, mid-range shot creation, and ability to take over games.

 His performances have made him one of the most closely watched young guards in the UAAP, and scouts have long pegged him as a potential pro, whether in local leagues or in foreign circuits such as Japan’s B.League or Korea’s KBL.

“Hindi ko pa iniisip,” he admitted when asked about his long-term plans. “Darating din ako sa pro in the future, so tignan natin kung ano ’yung magiging decision ko—kung saang team ako magagamit at mabibigyan ako ng opportunity to play as Nic.”

Widely regarded as one of the most sought-after backcourt prospects once he turns pro, Cabañero is expected to draw interest from multiple teams both locally and abroad. But for now, the UST star maintains that he will take his next step only when the timing feels right, and the opportunity aligns with his development as a player.

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