UST Growling Tigers Michael Mara, Ice Danting Sign with PUMA

Michael Mara and Ice Danting, two developing standouts from the UST Growling Tigers, have officially signed endorsement deals with PUMA Philippines. The move deepens PUMA’s growing footprint in the country’s college basketball scene, as it builds a roster packed with young, high-upside talent.

The signings were confirmed by Anthony Brodett of Phenom Sports Management, who manages both athletes. Brodett called the partnership a strong match, noting that Mara and Danting bring the energy, work ethic, and confidence that reflect the PUMA brand.

Mara, a 6-foot-5 forward who transferred from College of St. Benilde in 2024, is expected to make the UST line-up in his first UAAP season after a full year of development. Danting, a sharp-shooting combo guard, has already drawn attention with his performances in the FilOil Preseason Cup and Asiabasket Invitational, where his three-point shooting and aggressiveness stood out.

With these additions, PUMA continues to assemble an exciting lineup of basketball players in the country. Other notable names on the brand’s roster include Quentin Millora-Brown, the former Vanderbilt standout now suiting up for the Macau Black Bears; Precious Momowei, UE’s do-it-all forward; Zain Mahmood, the FEU Tamaraws’ latest recruit; and Chicco Briones, a tall wing playing rotation minutes with the UP Fighting Maroons.

PUMA’s investment in college talent goes beyond individual endorsements. In June 2025, the brand inked a three-year deal to become the official outfitter of the UP Fighting Maroons, starting in UAAP Season 88. The deal includes apparel, performance gear, and even international training opportunities.

For Mara and Danting, the partnership with PUMA marks a new chapter in their careers — and a sign that the next generation of talents is already on the radar of global brands.