Kymani Ladi has yet to play a single UAAP game for Ateneo de Manila University, but the towering prospect is already drawing attention from overseas.
The 6-foot-8 winger from Vallejo, California, confirmed to Tiebreaker Times that he has received invitations for private workouts with NBA teams ahead of the upcoming Las Vegas Summer League.
However, the 24-year-old Filipino-American is still sorting out necessary clearances before deciding whether to fly back to the United States for the tryouts, scheduled from July 10 to 17.
“I’m still confirming if I’m going, since I’m awaiting approval from Ateneo. But if not this year, then I’ll try to pursue the workouts after the season,” Ladi said.
Before committing to Ateneo, Ladi played for Merritt College, a California Community College Athletic Association program.
He averaged 14.9 points on 41.8% shooting from the field, 38.1% from beyond the arc, and grabbed 7.7 rebounds per game across 26 outings.
Ladi transferred to Ateneo last year and sat out a season due to residency rules.
He is expected to make his one-and-done appearance in UAAP Season 88.
Despite not yet debuting in the UAAP, Ladi has already impressed in local tournaments with the Blue Eagles.
In the Asiabasket tournament, he averaged 14.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game — helping Ateneo reach the finals and earning a spot on the Mythical Team.
Still, Ladi remains in discussions with Ateneo’s University Athletics Office to determine whether attending an NBA workout would compromise his eligibility.
“I’m really excited, especially since it’s always been a dream of mine. But right now, I’m focused on the upcoming UAAP season,” he shared.
“I want to prove myself at a high level and continue my basketball journey.”
