Venturing from the United States to Philippine collegiate basketball, Ateneo de Manila University’s one-and-done recruits Kymani Ladi (Meritt College) and Dom Escobar (Cal State LA) admitted they weren’t entirely sure what challenges awaited them in the fiercely competitive UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
At first, it seemed the duo adapted seamlessly to the physicality of Philippine hoops, guiding the Blue Eagles to a strong four-game winning streak to open the season.
But even with their immediate impact and the guidance of head coach Tab Baldwin’s system, Ateneo fell short of its Final Four aspirations for the second consecutive season.
The team ended Season 88 on a heartbreaking 72-73 loss to arch-rival De La Salle University.
Despite the sour end to their lone UAAP campaign, Ladi and Escobar leave with lessons that will carry them forward, whether in the Philippines or overseas.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“Coach Tab questioned me every day and really tested me mentally. He really gets into our heads and asks deeper questions about basketball. I really appreciate him for that. I feel like he’s expanded my knowledge on the game, and I can truly say that coming out of this program, I’ve become a better basketball player than I was when I first arrived,” Escobar said after posting 18 points, four rebounds, and a steal in his final UAAP game.
“I’m just extremely grateful for the opportunity we had here. I would love to be an advocate for any Fil-Ams back home who are unsure about Philippine basketball.”
For Ladi, the experience went beyond the X’s and O’s. He cherished Baldwin’s insights but found lasting value in Ateneo’s BEBOB culture — a commitment to standing together as one, no matter the adversity.
This mindset will be especially crucial for Ladi as he eyes the next step in his basketball journey.
At 25, he hopes to make his mark internationally with a potential debut for Gilas Pilipinas in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
However, his eligibility remains uncertain because he obtained his Philippine passport after turning 16, leaving his SEA Games participation still in limbo.
Professionally, with no PBA draft scheduled next year, both Ladi and Escobar are exploring alternative paths, including the MPBL.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“I really started to understand what Ateneo was all about, especially attending classes and seeing what the BEBOB culture truly meant. Growing up, I wasn’t really part of a collective team,” Ladi shared.
“Being here, seeing players from previous years support each other, it really showed me the community aspect and how the team stands by you even in your worst times.”
Baldwin was quick to praise the duo, lauding them not only as elite talents who lifted the Blue Eagles but as leaders whose character embodies the BEBOB spirit in the Ateneo locker room.
“These two are going to be outstanding pros — not just because they’re skilled basketball players, but because they are the kind of men you want in your huddle and in your home. They’re true competitors, quality people who enhance the lives of those around them,” Baldwin said.
“I’m here to testify that these guys have enhanced not just our team and the Ateneo community, but my life personally, because of their character and personalities. Any professional team would be lucky to have them — they’ll improve your environment, elevate your talent, and make coaching easier from the day they arrive.”
