JD Cagulangan will have plenty to look forward to in 2025 as he begins his pro career with the Suwon KT Sonicboom in the KBL.
Fresh off the UP Fighting Maroons' championship run in UAAP Season 87, Finals MVP JD Cagulangan is already looking forward to his upcoming stint in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).
Cagulangan had recently signed with the Suwon KT Sonicboom, marking the beginning of his professional basketball career.
Known as a winner on the court with two UAAP titles under his belt, the 24-year-old point guard shared his expectations in joining the Sonicboom, who are currently 4th in the ongoing KBL season with an 11-9 record.
“For sure, very competitive din dun and sa personal expectations ko naman, siguro ma-fit ko lang ‘yung game ko sa system na pinapatakbo ng coach, and I’m ok with that. so trabaho lang talaga,” Cagulangan said on One News' Play by Play.
Suwon KT is no stranger to having Filipino talent on board, having signed Dave Ildefonso in 2023 before replacing him with Batang Gilas standout Dalph Panopio.
However, not long after, Panopio was released by the Sonicboom after suffering a herniated disc injury even before the new KBL season began.
With Cagulangan in the squad, the Sonicboom will be hoping to finally have the right piece in their championship aspirations, especially after making the Finals last season.
But for the 5-foot-9 local superstar, it’s also a chance for him to face other talented Pinoys in the league, which include Kevin Quiambao, SJ Belangel, and former UP talents Carl Tamayo, Juan and Javi Gomez de Liaño.
“Very very happy kasi ‘yung mga ganung caliber ng players, they play for Gilas eh no, so happy ako na nakapaglaro ako sa ibang bansa [and] may chance na makalaban ko sila,” said Cagulangan.
“I’m happy kasi masha-share ko pa rin ‘yung court with them. And of course, especially yung mga Fighting Maroons din na nandoon sila Juan, Javi, and of course my best friend Carl,” he added.
Also in the KBL are reigning MVP Ethan Alvano, Migs Oczon, Justin Gutang, and Calvin Epistola.