UAAP champion guard JD Cagulangan takes the next step in his basketball career with his professional debut in South Korea for the Suwon KT Sonicboom.
JD Cagulangan is all set to make his professional debut with Korean Basketball League (KBL) side Suwon KT Sonicboom as he recently joined the team in training, possibly suiting up as early as Saturday afternoon as his new team faces off with the Seoul Samsung Thunders.
Cagulangan, who was instrumental to UP’s two championships in UAAP Season 84 and Season 87, was welcomed by his teammates earlier this week and got to talk about his expectations and how he prepared himself.
The UAAP Season 87 Finals MVP hardly had time to rest and relax as he needed to continue to prepare for his impending KBL debut even during the holiday season, while their UAAP season wrapped up just mid-December.
Despite the busy schedule, Cagulangan wasn’t one to complain and said that he needed to come to his team with a good mindset, especially as he has to prove himself to his new team.
“I have a duty too after the [UAAP] season so that’s why I need to train hard and I need to continue my work. It’s my dream to be here so I need to be prepared,” said Cagulangan on his welcome interview with the team.
After he arrived, Cagulangan was able to talk to head coach Song Young-jin, who told him he had high expectations of the Philippine guard.
Though only a rookie, Cagulangan also set lofty goals for himself — including helping Suwon win it all in the 2024-25 KBL season.
“Of course, I want to win championships. I want to win. I wanna win a championship, especially this year. It’s my first year. So I’m excited. I’m very very excited,” he said.
As for how he plans to impact the team, the point guard is eager to create for his teammates — just like he did back in his UP days.
“I’ll make plays for my teammates. I love to pass and I love to win.” said Cagulangan.
Of course, Cagulangan’s new life will also involve things off of the court. Getting to go overseas for his first professional stint, he is also excited to explore the city and familiarize himself with the culture.
“It’s my first here in professional [basketball]. So maybe, I’ll spend time with them and go around in the city.” he said.
For fans of Cagulangan, all eyes will be on the Sonicboom clash with Samsung. There, Cagulangan faces the possibility of clashing against fellow Filipino import Justin Gutang who plays for the Thunders.
Tip off is penciled in at 1 p.m., Manila time at Suwon’s home venue. Suwon is also set to face Carl Tamayo's Changwon LG Sakers Monday, and SJ Belangel's Daegu KOGAS Pegasus on January 16.