College of St. Benilde’s Shawn Umali at the PBA Draft combine.–PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—College of St. Benilde big man Shawn Umali has all the green light in the world to enter the 2025 PBA Draft despite still having a year of eligibility with the Blazers.
During Day 2 of this year’s Draft Combine, Umali showed his talents and had a chat with several coaches in attendance.
It’s always been a practice for graduating NCAA students with one more playing left to declare for the draft.
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The difference with Umali is, he has things favored for him, from the coaching staff to his fellow Blazers.
“They’ve (coaches) been asking how I am and asking if I’ll finish my school of course, I will, because I still have a commitment with Benilde,” Umali told the Inquirer.
“Coach Charles (Tiu) supports me all the way and I’m even with our captain ball, (Gab) Cometa and Jake Gaspay.”
Formerly from Lyceum, Umali jumped ship to Taft and joined the College of St. Benilde squad two years ago.
After sitting out one residency year, Umali is ready to take on his one-and-done stint with the title-seeking Blazers.
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With his support system joining the PBA Draft themselves, the sturdy big man has no problem preparing for his final collegiate season.
“Even if we’re absent from games or training, they push us to go here so when we finish our time with Benilde, we may have this opportunity.”
Before he gets to rep the green and white next month, though, Umali is hopeful for his name to be called on Sunday.
“I’ll just be bringing my competitiveness with whatever team that drafts me, especially in the physical aspect.”
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The PBA Draft is slated Sunday at Mall of Asia Music Hall.
