As one of the most sought-after recruits in the Class of 2026, Far Eastern University-Diliman forward Cabs Cabonillas has a wealth of options for the next chapter of his burgeoning career.
However, the newly crowned UAAP Season 88 19-and-under 3×3 basketball tournament champion is choosing to hold off on revealing where he will play in the coming months.
“Marami man kumukuha sa akin, pero ‘di ko muna iniisip ‘yun,” said Cabonillas, who made history as the first-ever regular season and Finals Most Valuable Player in UAAP High School Boys’ Basketball history.
“Parang nag-enjoy muna ako sa self ko and with my family, teammates, at coaches. Kung anuman yung vision ko sa pagtatapos ng pag-aaral, ‘yun na lang talaga ‘yun.”
Coming off a successful 5-on-5 campaign last March, much was expected from Cabonillas in the 3×3 competition.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
The graduating senior delivered consistently for the Baby Tamaraws, eventually helping them secure the school’s fourth straight championship in the division.
The experience also taught him what it means to be a senior leader, guiding his team through challenges and heightened expectations on the way to glory.
“Masaya kasi ganito pala ang seniors—ikaw ang magle-lead sa teammates ko. Gina-guide din ako ni Lord sa kung ano ang matutulungan Niya sa akin. Pagdating sa next journey ko sa college, ‘di ko pa masasabi kasi tatapusin ko yung pag-aaral ko, at saka tinapos ko lang din yung 3×3 ko,” said the 6-foot-4 forward, who ends his high school career as a four-time champion.
In time, everyone learns where Cabonillas will continue his journey.
For now, the decision remains in his hands, and he has a clear idea of what he is looking for in his next college team.
“Hinahanap ko kasi ay sa playing time ko—kung paano ako magagamit at saka paano ako i-li-lead ang mga kuya ko,” he said.
“Sabay lang ako sa kanila kasi bago pa ako, rookie pa ako.”
