Kymani Ladi didn’t need much time to announce his arrival in Philippine collegiate basketball.
In just one season with the Ateneo Blue Eagles, the 6-foot-8 Filipino-American forward-center delivered production, poise, and promise—quickly putting his name on the national radar.
Born on September 13, 2000, and hailing from Vallejo, California, Ladi brought a unique blend of size, athleticism, and perimeter skill to Ateneo. A product of Merritt College before continuing his career at Ateneo de Manila University, the 25-year-old suited up for the Blue Eagles across multiple competitions, including the Manila Best Tournament, AsiaBasket, the BBl, and the UAAP.
Ladi’s debut was nothing short of memorable. Facing FEU, he poured in 26 points to go along with 9 rebounds and 3 assists, powering Ateneo to an overtime victory. The performance instantly showcased what he could offer—a versatile forward capable of scoring inside, stretching the floor, and contributing across the stat sheet.
That breakout game set the tone for his lone season with the Blue Eagles. In true one-and-done fashion, Ladi averaged 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, providing Ateneo with a reliable two-way presence. Whether operating as a forward or sliding into the center spot, his size and mobility created mismatches on both ends of the floor.
Known as an athletic wingman, Ladi stands out for his ability to run the floor and knock down shots from beyond the arc—an increasingly valuable skill set in modern basketball. His outside shooting forced defenses to extend, opening lanes for teammates while also allowing him to exploit slower matchups off the dribble.
Ladi’s impact did not go unnoticed. Following his UAAP stint, he was already being considered as a potential player for the Gilas Men’s National Basketball Team, a testament to both his Filipino roots and his on-court potential at the international level.
Though his stay with Ateneo was brief, Kymani Ladi made it count. In just one season, he left a strong impression as a modern, multi-skilled big who could contribute immediately—and whose basketball journey appears far from finished.