Cebuano wingman Nicael Cabañero has committed to join the rebuilding University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in the UAAP.

The 6-foot-2 stalwart from Lapu-Lapu City actually transferred from NCAA powerhouse San Beda to UST high school last year but wasn’t able to suit up because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite not being able to show his skills for the Tiger Cubs, his experience with the school, the team and its coaches were enough to convince him to stay with UST.

Cabañero gave his commitment to Growling Tigers head coach Jinino Manansala, team manager Ryan Roxas and assistant coaches Joph Cleopas and McJour Luib.

Cabañero began his career with Cebu powerhouse SHS-Ateneo de Cebu before transferring to San Beda. He played in NCAA Season 95 and had decent numbers of 6.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 0.9 steals.

Cabañero will be part of the Growling Tigers’ young core, which recently got the commitment of studs LA Casinillo, Royce Mantua and Jordi Gomez de Liaño, the younger brother of Gilas players Javi and Juan Gomez de Liaño. (JNP)