Mapua star guard Clint Escamis to skip PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft

Mapua University star Clint Escamis is shelving his PBA aspirations for now, opting to skip the upcoming Season 50 Rookie Draft despite being among the most highly anticipated prospects to make the professional leap. 

The do-it-all guard confirmed his decision to GMA News Online just days shy of the August 29 application deadline for PBA aspirants. 

Escamis stands out as one of the marquee names in a pool of hopefuls eager to showcase their talent in the PBA.

The graduating Cardinal has established himself as one of the premier guards in the NCAA over the past two seasons. 

Returning to Mapua in Season 99, he immediately made his presence felt by leading the Cardinals back to the finals while clinching Rookie of the Year and MVP honors, though they ultimately fell short of the crown against San Beda University.

The 24-year-old court general returned in the centennial season with the same fire, once again steering Mapua to the championship stage, this time completing the mission by sweeping De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde in the finals.

But Escamis has yet to plot his next move as he remains focused on helping Mapua defend its title come NCAA Season 101, which is slated to kick off on October 1. 

Joining Escamis in their title defense is veteran Cyrus Cuenco, along with transferees Cyril Gonzales and Cyrus Nitura, who are both expected to provide a significant boost following the departures of Chris Hubilla and Lawrence Mangubat.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News