Former NCAA Div. 1, 7-Foot FSA Dieonte Miles Joins UP Maroons

Photo: Morehead State

The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons have added serious size and experience to their frontcourt with the signing of Dieonte Miles, a 7-foot, 238-pound center who recently showcased his all-around game at the 2025 BLIA Cup in Taiwan.

According to Go Empire Group, Miles’ representation, he has officially committed to UP.

He is eligible to suit up for the team in UAAP Season 89, his lone year of eligibility.

Miles, 24, is a former NCAA Division I player with stops at Xavier University and Morehead State. Known for his defensive presence and rim protection, he elevated his profile during the BLIA Cup, where he represented Houchon Basketball Macau. He turned heads with dominant performances, including a 24-point, 17-rebound, 3-block outing against a Malaysia Select Team and a 14-point, 11-rebound game against National Taiwan Normal University.

Originally from Walton, Kentucky, Miles came up through Walton-Verona High School before being recruited to Xavier, where he spent multiple seasons in a limited role. He later transferred to Morehead State, where he played meaningful minutes in the Ohio Valley Conference, averaging around 6.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game in the 2024–25 season.

Despite modest scoring numbers, Miles was a reliable rim protector with mobility for a 7-footer, and his size alone made him a difference-maker in the paint. He played 13 of 23 games as a starter last season for the Eagles and shot just over 44 percent from the field. His performance in Taiwan shows growth on both ends of the floor — particularly his improved rebounding and willingness to assert himself offensively.

Miles’ signing adds a towering presence to a UP squad that has built a reputation for developing talent and competing deep into the Final Four. He joins a system known for defensive discipline and versatility — traits that align well with his skill set.

More importantly, his international experience, Division I pedigree, and recent standout performances signal a high ceiling. If he can maintain his BLIA Cup form, Miles could be a game-changer in a league where dominant bigs are rare and highly impactful.

He also joined UP in their recent out-of-town trip to Korea.

With just one season of eligibility, he’ll be expected to contribute immediately. His challenge will be adapting to the UAAP’s pace and physicality, as well as anchoring the paint against top-tier rivals like Ateneo and La Salle.

UP gets a legitimate rim protector who can alter shots and control the glass. Miles’ recent performances show he can dominate the boards when assertive. While not known for scoring in his NCAA days, he’s showing signs of becoming a reliable inside presence. At 24, he brings maturity and potential — valuable traits in a high-pressure collegiate setting.

Miles’ signing also highlights UP’s growing reach and ambition. From recruiting top local talents to securing international players with US backgrounds, the program is building a deep, versatile, and competitive roster year after year.

When Season 89 comes approaching, many will be curious on how Dieonte Miles adjusts—and whether he becomes the next key piece in UP’s title puzzle.

For more college basketball news, view here.