Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5, Cedrick Manzano has completed a standout collegiate basketball journey defined by steady growth, elite competition, and national success.
Born on March 5, 2003, the 22-year-old center from Cajidiocan, Romblon officially graduated from Adamson University after concluding his UAAP eligibility in Season 88 (2025), positioning himself as one of the most sought-after blue-chip prospects for the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
Manzano suited up for the Adamson Soaring Falcons in AsiaBasket, the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup, and the UAAP, where he emerged as a reliable interior presence. Renowned for his excellent footwork in the post, he consistently created high-percentage scoring opportunities, battled on the boards, and anchored defensive schemes against some of the country’s top collegiate big men.
His athletic foundation was built early. Before fully committing to basketball, Manzano was a volleyball standout in elementary school and competed in Palarong Pambansa as a Grade 5 student. That background sharpened his timing, coordination, and verticality—attributes that remain evident in his rebounding and rim protection today.
Manzano’s path to Adamson was unconventional yet defining. In Grade 12, he was recruited by coach Aldin Ayo to join UST, but the opportunity was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Fate intervened soon after when Adamson coach Ryan Monteclaro discovered him during a pickup game, leading to his eventual rise with the Soaring Falcons.
Beyond the collegiate ranks, Manzano has already proven himself on the international stage. In December 2025, he captured gold with Gilas Pilipinas at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, adding championship pedigree to his résumé.
Now entering the post-collegiate phase of his career, Manzano is widely viewed as a blue-chip MPBL prospect due to his size, discipline, and readiness to contribute immediately. His game translates well to the physical and fast-paced nature of the MPBL, where interior defense, rebounding, screen-setting, and efficient post scoring are premium skills.
For any MPBL team, Manzano offers instant frontcourt stability. He can protect the paint, finish around the basket, and punish mismatches in the low post while also providing energy, toughness, and a strong work ethic. His experience in structured collegiate systems and international competition allows him to adapt quickly, making him a valuable building block for teams seeking both short-term impact and long-term development.
With his UAAP chapter complete and momentum on his side, Cedrick Manzano stands ready to take the next step. From Romblon to the national team—and now to the professional ranks—his rise continues, and the MPBL may well be the next stage where his presence is felt