A NEW talent from the Philippines has caught the attention of NBA scouts, as Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles’ Kymani Ladi received invites for workouts in the world’s premier basketball league.
Although Ladi hasn’t played a single UAAP match for Ateneo yet, the towering prospect who’s committed to the Katipunan-based squad this season, is already making waves internationally.
The 6-foot-8 flexible forward out of Vallejo, California, revealed to Tiebreaker Times that he’s been invited to attend private NBA team workouts ahead of the Las Vegas Summer League.
An Eagle Ready to Soar?
Despite the opportunity, the 24-year-old Filipino-American baller is still working through key clearances before deciding whether to return to the U.S. 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 told the media.
Prior to joining ADMU, Ladi suited up for Merritt College, a member of the California Community College Athletic Association, where he averaged 14.9 points on 41.8% shooting, 38.1% from three-point range, along with 7.7 rebounds per game over 26 appearances.
Ladi moved to Ateneo last year but had to sit out a season because of residency regulations. Still, he’s already set to make his one-and-done debut in UAAP Season 88, which is only a few months away.
Mr. Instant Impact
In his first ADMU stint at the Asiabasket tournament, he had averages of 14.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, playing a key role in Ateneo’s run to the finals and securing a place on the league’s Mythical Team.
However, Ladi is still in talks with Ateneo’s University Athletics Office to clarify if joining an NBA workout might affect 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.”
Aside from Ladi, it’s worth noting that Kevin Quiambao, a full-blooded Filipino basketball standout, is also set to head to the U.S. to test his chances in the upcoming NBA Summer League.
Despite being sidelined for a stretch in the Korean Basketball League, Quiambao still put up solid numbers, averaging 16.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.3 steals over 23 games with the Goyang Sono Skygunners.
Chasing the dream of reaching the NBA as representatives of the Philippines may be a tough road for both Ladi and Quiambao, but it’s evident that they’re ready to take the leap and proudly carry the flag in their journey.
