Daniel Marcelo is not headed to Colegio de San Juan de Letran after all.
Instead, the high-scoring 5-foot-10 Filipino-Canadian guard has committed to San Beda University, finalizing his decision earlier this week.
Marcelo, who began his collegiate career at Centro Escolar University (CEU), made the move to Letran just a year ago.
However, his ultimate destination was always in his heart.
“It was a very hard decision to make that jump from Letran to San Beda, but I felt it was the right environment to grow both as a player and a person. The program, culture, and opportunities aligned perfectly with my goals,” the 21-year-old Vancouver native shared with Tiebreaker Times.
(C) UCAL
Fate seems to have played a poetic role in Marcelo’s journey.
It was against San Beda in the PBA D-League that he showcased his full potential and made a name for himself.
During the 2024 Aspirants’ Cup, Marcelo averaged 13.9 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game, propelling CEU to a surprising second-place finish.
His standout moment came in Game 1 of the semifinals, where he erupted for 31 points in a scintillating performance against the Red Lions. That unforgettable outing earned him the nickname “Lion Killer.”
Marcelo’s brilliance wasn’t limited to the PBA D-League.
In the UCAL Season 5 Tournament, he shone, averaging 18.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.
Now, Marcelo faces a year-long residency before donning the iconic red and white of San Beda in NCAA Season 102.
Despite the wait, he remains eager and motivated to make the most of this new chapter.
“I’m beyond excited. It’s a fresh start, and I’m ready to give my all to make the most of this chance,” Marcelo said.
