As I sit down to analyze the upcoming season for the De La Salle University Green Archers, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Every year, the UAAP basketball scene brings its own drama, but this season feels particularly pivotal for DLSU. Having followed college hoops for over a decade, both as a fan and an analyst, I’ve learned that a team’s fortune hinges not just on star power, but on the complete roster’s synergy and the unique journeys each player brings to the court. Today, I want to walk you through the complete DLSU basketball roster and highlight the key players I believe will define their campaign. It’s more than just a list of names; it’s about understanding the engine that will drive this team forward.
The core of this team, in my opinion, is built on a blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent. Anchoring the paint is expected to be the reliable presence of Michael Phillips, whose energy and rebounding—he averaged a solid 9.5 boards last season—are absolutely non-negotiable for La Salle’s defensive identity. Alongside him, the guard rotation looks dynamic, with Evan Nelle returning to orchestrate the offense. His court vision and improved three-point shooting, which I’d estimate climbed to around 34% in the offseason, will be crucial in breaking down set defenses. But what truly fascinates me this year is the influx of experience from an unexpected source: the professional ranks. This brings me directly to the reference point we have, the story of Juan Gomez de Liaño. While Juan himself is not on the DLSU roster, his narrative perfectly mirrors a growing trend that impacts college teams—the value of worldly experience. His quote, “I feel truly grateful to be in this position right now,” after stints in Japan, Lithuania, and Korea before the PBA draft, speaks volumes. That kind of global exposure to different styles of play is invaluable. It’s a mindset I see reflected in some of La Salle’s key figures who have also gained experience beyond the UAAP, making them less predictable and more adaptable under pressure.
Now, let’s talk about the actual key players who embody this. First, there’s Kevin Quiambao. After a stint with the Gilas Pilipinas program and exposure to international competition, his game has matured tremendously. He’s no longer just a promising big man; he’s a versatile forward who can handle the ball, shoot from outside, and make smart passes. I expect his scoring average to jump from 11 points to somewhere in the region of 15 or 16 points per game this season. He’s my personal pick for a potential MVP candidate if everything clicks. Then you have the guards like Mark Nonoy, whose blistering speed is a known commodity, but what I’ve been impressed with lately is his decision-making. Earlier in his career, he’d sometimes force the issue, but now he seems more poised, a change I attribute to the collective maturity of the squad. Another vital piece is Francis Escandor. He might not always fill the stat sheet, but watch him move without the ball and play defense—he’s the glue guy every championship-contending team needs. The bench depth, featuring players like CJ Austria and Raven Cortez, provides specific, high-energy roles. Cortez, in particular, gives them a different look at the center position with his shot-blocking instinct; I’d wager he averaged about 1.8 blocks per game in the preseason tournaments, which is a significant deterrent in the paint.
However, a roster is only as good as its cohesion. The real test for head coach Topex Robinson will be weaving these individual talents into a seamless system. The Green Archers will likely run a lot, using their athleticism to push the tempo, but they must also excel in half-court execution against disciplined teams like UP and Ateneo. My slight concern, and it’s a personal observation, is their consistency from the three-point line. They have shooters, but they can go through cold spells. If they can maintain a team three-point percentage above 32% consistently, they become nearly unstoppable. The integration of the veterans' wisdom with the young players' hunger is the alchemy that wins championships. Looking at the complete picture, this DLSU roster is arguably the most balanced and deepest it has been in the last three years. They have the size, the guard play, the experience from various basketball journeys, and a coach who fosters a resilient mentality.
In conclusion, discovering the DLSU roster for this season reveals a team built not just for flashy plays, but for a sustained grind. The key players I’ve highlighted—from the star potential of Quiambao to the steady leadership of Nelle and Phillips—form a nucleus that understands the stakes. Their diverse paths, reminiscent of the professional journey highlighted by Gomez de Liaño’s gratitude and global perspective, contribute to a richer team culture. As a longtime observer, I’m genuinely excited about their prospects. I have a strong feeling they’ll finish within the top two after the elimination round, putting themselves in prime position for a championship run. The pieces are all there; it’s now about putting them together on the biggest stage. It’s going to be a thrilling season to watch.
