After an impressive one-year stint in the UAAP, Ateneo Blue Eagles wing Kymani Ladi has officially made his first move to the professional leagues, joining the Caloocan Batang Kankaloo in the MPBL.
The 6-foot-8 wing confirmed the news on Thursday with a short caption on Instagram.
“Chapter 2…” Ladi said.
Kymani Ladi Reunites with Ex-Teammate and Former Opponent
Ladi’s move to the MPBL marks a reunion with fellow one-and-done teammate Dominic Escobar. The two standout wings led Ateneo to a near Final Four appearance in Season 88 with a 6-8 record.
Additionally, Ladi will also reunite with former opponent and UAAP champion Kean Baclaan of the La Salle Green Archers. Ladi and Escobar, incidentally, faced La Salle in their final games in the UAAP.
Kymani Ladi now joins a squad of graduating UAAP players who have also taken their talents to the MPBL, joining the likes of UST’s Nic Cabañero (Biñan Tatak Gel), UP’s Harold Alarcon (San Juan Knights), and Adamson’s Cedrick Manzano (Quezon Huskers).
A New Big 3 Forms in Caloocan
In his lone season playing for the blue-and-white, Kymani Ladi was an instant spark on offense and an anchor on the defensive end, averaging 14.3 points and 7.1 rebounds.
With his addition to the Batang Kankaloo, Ladi completes a new trio to watch in Caloocan with Escobar and Baclaan. Ladi and Escobar will provide size, athleticism, and all-around talent on the wings, while Baclaan will offer superb playmaking at the point.
Despite being swept in the 2025 MPBL semifinals by the Abra Weavers, Caloocan finished with its best record in franchise history at 21-8. With the arrival of a new Big 3, MPBL fans can expect a new title contender in the mix for the upcoming year.
