Dominic Escobar drawing KBL interest, sources say

Dominic Escobar is garnering interest from a couple of Korean Basketball League teams for next season, sources told ALL-STAR Magazine.

One KBL team has shown stronger interest than the rest in Escobar, sources said, as teams continue to monitor potential Asian quota targets following the conclusion of the current KBL playoffs.

Escobar, who recently wrapped up his one-and-done UAAP stint with Ateneo, is currently with Caloocan Batang Kankaloo in the MPBL as he begins the next stage of his professional career.

The 6-foot-5 wing became one of Ateneo’s most productive pieces in UAAP Season 88, averaging 11 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game while giving the Blue Eagles size, defensive versatility, and secondary playmaking on the perimeter.

Escobar’s combination of size, physicality, and two-way production has made him one of the Philippine-based players being tracked by KBL teams as they evaluate options for next season.

KBL scouts are currently in the Philippines to look at possible recruits, sources told ALL-STAR Magazine.

Among the collegiate players in the country, La Salle guard Jacob Cortez is viewed by some KBL scouts as one of the few possible fits at this stage, sources said. UP forward Veejay Pre is also a name that has come up, though the level of interest around the collegiate pool remains fluid.

Cortez previously received an official offer from a KBL team, but ultimately decided to stay with La Salle, his father, former UAAP champion Mike Cortez, told ALL-STAR Magazine.

“Yes he did officially receive an offer from a KBL team, but he decided to play out his senior year for DLSU because he wants to give back to the DLSU community, finish his studies, and play alongside his brother Mikey in the UAAP,” Mike Cortez said.

The KBL has become one of the most active overseas destinations for Filipino players in recent years, with teams continuing to value guards and wings who can contribute as Asian quota players.

Escobar now enters that picture after building a strong resume across Cal State LA, Ateneo, and the MPBL.

Before arriving in the Philippines, Escobar played for Cal State LA, where he became a 1,000-point scorer and an All-CCAA-level player. He then gave Ateneo an immediate veteran presence in Season 88 before moving to Caloocan to start his professional career.

While no deal is in place, Escobar’s name is one to watch as KBL teams move toward offseason planning after the playoffs.