Arellano University continues to prove its place as a breeding ground for basketball talent as four former Chiefs were selected in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft on Sunday, September 7, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall.
Headlining the group is JL Capulong, drafted by the NLEX Road Warriors in the third round at pick 29. Capulong carved his name in Arellano’s history after earning the Most Improved Player award during the NCAA’s centennial season while also establishing himself as a defensive anchor, landing a spot on the NCAA All-Defensive Team for two consecutive seasons.
Joining him are Jordan Sta. Ana, Neil Tolentino, and Danielle Mallari, who were all drafted by the Converge FiberXers. Mallari was picked in the sixth round at 60th overall, Sta. Ana in the seventh round at 66th, and Tolentino in the tenth round at 76th.
The trio will not be strangers in their new environment, as they join fellow Arellano products Ronan Santos and Justin Arana, while also playing under Chico Manabat, the current Arellano Chiefs head coach who now serves as Converge’s lead deputy on the coaching staff.
The Chiefs’ growing presence in the PBA highlights the program’s influence, consistently sending talents from Legarda to the professional stage with the likes of Cade Flores, Justin Arana, Kent Salado, Jio Jalalon, Prince Caperal, and Nards Pinto. For Arellano, this year’s draft is not just about individual milestones—it stands as proof that the culture of hard work, discipline, and unity instilled in the program continues to thrive beyond the NCAA.
As the PBA enters its 50th season, the Chiefs community now has new faces to cheer for in the pros. With Capulong, Sta. Ana, Tolentino, and Mallari ready to embrace the next chapter of their careers, Arellano proudly stands behind its former players as they continue to carry the Chiefs’ spirit on the biggest basketball stage in the country.
- Carlo Arsula
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