UST’s Nic Cabañero Enters UAAP Mythical Five Picture
Photo sources: UAAP Media Team
The UAAP MVP race continues to evolve, with another shake-up in the standings as the season approaches its pivotal stretch. University of Santo Tomas’ Nic Cabañero has surged into contention for a spot in the mythical five following his impressive 27-point, 8-rebound performance in a crucial victory against UE. This standout showing propelled him into fifth place in the statistical points (SPs) rankings, overtaking his UST teammate, Forthsky Padrigao, who now sits at sixth.
Kevin Quiambao Continues to Lead
According to local statistician Johann Medina, who shares his work on X, La Salle’s Kevin Quiambao remains atop the MVP leaderboard with 83.77 SPs, holding firm as the frontrunner for this season’s highest individual honor. His consistent dominance has been central to his team’s campaign currently 12-1 campaign, making him a challenging obstacle for other MVP hopefuls to surpass.
Momowei’s Ejection Alters Standings
Second place has seen a shift as UE’s Precious Momowei, previously ranked right behind Quiambao, is no longer eligible due to his recent ejection against UST. This disqualification could, however, be subject to change if the UAAP commissioner’s office decides to downgrade one of his unsportsmanlike fouls – a decision that could potentially allow Momowei back into the mix. In the meantime, Mike Phillips of La Salle has claimed the runner-up spot with 75.46 SPs.
Current Standings in the MVP Race
The top five spots are now as follows:
- Kevin Quiambao (La Salle) – 83.77 SPs
- Mike Phillips (La Salle) – 75.46 SPs
- Mo Konateh (FEU) – 68.46 SPs
- JD Cagulangan (UP) – 67.3 SPs
- Nic Cabañero (UST) – 60.39 SPs
Close behind Cabañero are Forthsky Padrigao in sixth place with 58.39 SPs, Josh David (La Salle) in seventh with 57.46 SPs, Jake Figueroa (NU) in eighth with 53.08 SPs, Quentin Millora-Brown (UP) in ninth with 50.64 SPs, and Veejay Pre (FEU) rounding out the top 10 with 50.15 SPs.
#UAAPSeason87 Men's Basketball MVP Race (Unofficial)
— Yohan (@johann999) November 11, 2024
As of Nov. 10, 2024
1. Quiambao
2. Phillips, M.
3. Konateh
4. Cagulangan
5. @NicaelCabanero9 (first time to enter Top 5 this season)
Rookie of the Year Race
1. Pre @Frncsvjy_15 – rk 10
2. Bahay – rk 13
3. Pasaol – rk 17 https://t.co/ySspXjMwfW pic.twitter.com/PydzK8h4gZ
Pre Leads the Rookie of the Year Race
Despite dropping in the MVP rankings, Veejay Pre remains at the forefront of the Rookie of the Year race, with Ateneo’s Jared Bahay trailing closely behind with 47.92 SPs. Pre’s consistent performances have set him apart, but Bahay’s steady play indicates he could still make a late push.
The Mythical Five Race Heats Up
Cabañero’s recent rise adds new intrigue to the mythical five race, especially as he seems to be peaking at the right time. His ability to score in bunches and his growing contributions on the boards have made him an essential asset for UST and a viable candidate for a mythical five spot.
