After a decorated career with the UST Growling Tigers, former team captain Nic Cabañero has officially made the first move of his professional career by signing with Biñan Tatak Gel of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
The former King Tiger wrapped up his college stint in Season 88, guiding UST to an 8-6 record and a spot in the Final Four, where the Growling Tigers eventually fell to the UP Fighting Maroons.
With this move, Cabañero joins a platoon of graduating UAAP players who have taken their talents to the MPBL for their first taste of the pros. He joins the likes of Cedrick Manzano of the Adamson Falcons and John Abate of the UE Red Warriors (Quezon Huskers), as well as the UP Fighting Maroons’ Maroon 5 of Gerry Abadiano, Terrence Fortea, Harold Alarcon, Reyland Torres, and Janjan Felicilda (San Juan-Go for Gold).
Cabañero Adds Firepower to Loaded Roster
Prior to joining the pros, Cabañero was already playing like one, having been assigned as UST’s team captain in his final two seasons. UST made the Final Four in both campaigns.
In his final season in the UAAP, he led the Tigers’ offense with 16.8 points, along with 6.0 rebounds and 2.6 assists, eventually claiming his second straight Mythical Five award.
Cabañero’s offensive prowess meshes well with the veteran-filled Biñan roster, where he joins former PBA standouts Mac Cadorna and Marc Pingris, as well as former UST cager Renzo Subido.
Cabañero’s presence instantly boosts Biñan’s title chances. Last season, the team notched a 17-12 record but ultimately fell to the Huskers in the South Division playoffs.
Aside from Cabañero, the Laguna-based team also acquired the services of Michael Mabulac and Damian Lasco, adding more depth to the guard and forward positions.
With a retooled roster, Biñan will be looking to win its first title since joining the league in 2018. The team will be led by head coach Boyet Fernandez, who is no stranger to championships after winning four with the San Beda Red Lions.
