Dom Escobar is set to begin his professional career in Caloocan, joining the Batang Kankaloo for the 2026 MPBL season, a move he confirmed to Tiebreaker Times.
The 6-foot-5 winger, who will turn 24 in a few days, started his collegiate career at Cal State LA before spending a “one-and-done” season at Ateneo de Manila University.
In his lone year with the Blue Eagles, Escobar averaged 11.07 points, 6.93 rebounds, 2.64 assists, and 1.93 steals per game.
On stepping into the professional ranks, Escobar admitted the moment was both surreal and emotional.
“Man, I’m very excited. It’s a very surreal moment, especially knowing that I’m playing for my family’s country. My biological father was born and raised there before moving to the States, and my great-grandfather on my mom’s side was also born in the Philippines before coming to the U.S. So it’s a very emotional moment as well,” he expressed.
“I think he definitely played a part in it. His spirit — may God rest his soul — definitely guided me. I feel like he led me over there, and yeah, it’s super exciting.”
Caloocan immediately stood out to Escobar as the right fit.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“I think they made me feel very welcome. They showed me a lot of love and respect, and it just made me feel wanted. I think that’s what you really want when looking for a team to play for,” said Escobar.
He added, “Also, my teammate Kean Baclaan vouched for me a lot. He talked to me about the players we have and said I was a missing link for the team. Hearing that is very encouraging — it makes you want to play for that kind of team.
“So yeah, they really made me feel wanted.”
With the Batang Kankaloo, Escobar plays alongside former UAAP rival Baclaan, who shared his excitement about the partnership.
“Siyempre, sobrang excited ako makasama si Dom,” Baclaan said.
“Yung position niya yung kulang talaga sa team namin, and we’re really looking forward to being teammates. Thankful kami kay Mayor at Congressman para sa opportunity na ito.”
Looking ahead, Escobar is focused on both personal growth and team success, saying, “Personally, I want to build new connections, kind of like I did when I went to Ateneo. I met a lot of people there, so I want to keep building friendships, keep learning more about my culture and heritage, and maybe travel a little more in the Philippines.
“I’m hoping maybe after the season I can explore the beaches — I’ve heard the Philippines has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” he quipped.
“In terms of basketball, I would love to bring a championship to Caloocan. That’s pretty much every team’s goal. We have to take it practice by practice, game by game, and not get ahead of ourselves. I want to prove that I’m capable of playing at the professional level, and that the team and fan base can count on me to give it my all. I take a lot of pride in my game and my craft. I work very hard, and I give it my all anytime I step on the court.”
