FRESH OFF graduation, King Tiger Nic Cabañero has decided to run it back with the Growling Tigers for one last time, determined to help steer his squad back into the title contention.
The longest-tenured Tiger will use his fifth and final year of eligibility in UAAP Season 88 to bring the Tigers back to the championship picture.
“My motivation is that last season, we were just a bit short, so close to the finals… That’s our goal now, to reach the Final Four and let’s see if we can go all the way to the championship,” the team captain told The Flame.
After the UP Fighting Maroons ended UST’s quest for redemption back in September, Cabañero remained undecided about returning for another year as he focused on completing his on-the-job training and degree.
But he ultimately chose to extend his collegiate stint, citing unfinished business as a leader of the pack.
“I just need to step up more as a leader… Only Forthsky [Padrigao], Kyle [Paranda] and I are left from last season’s veterans, so it’s up to us now,” Cabañero said.
“I just need to adjust to my role as a leader,” he added.
The 6-foot-2 guard was instrumental in steering the Tigers to a bronze finish in Season 87, the team’s best result in nine years. He finished Season 87 with Mythical Five honors after averaging 16.29 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game in 14 outings.
Being a student-athlete, Cabañero emphasized the value of academic achievement alongside athletic excellence.
“I’ve already graduated from my academics. I really hope to instill in my teammates to graduate from school and embrace being a student,” he said.
“You have to adjust to both basketball and academics. Just give your best and do what you can.”
Cabañero earned a degree in BS Marketing Management from the UST College of Commerce and Business Administration on June 13, at the Quadricentennial Pavilion. He will pursue a master’s degree to remain eligible for Season 88.
The Thomasian cager recently suited up for the Philippines in the FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League 2025 – Asia-Pacific 1 held in Doha, Qatar and helped the team secure a third-place finish in Stop 2 of the tournament. F – Rishna Joy Maglinao with reports from Joshua Louis Sumanghid
