Discover the Top 10 UP PBA Players Who Are Dominating the Court This Season
Watching the UP PBA games this season has been nothing short of electrifying. As someone who’s followed the league for years, I’ve seen standout talents come and go, but this season’s roster from UP has something special brewing. It’s not just about raw skill—though there’s plenty of that—but the way these players read the game, adapt under pressure, and elevate their teammates sets them apart. I’ve spent hours analyzing game footage, crunching numbers, and even chatting with a few insiders to get a clearer picture. And let me tell you, the excitement is justified. Take NLEX, for example. Their recent performances, backed by that iconic PHOTO: NLEX moment capturing a crucial game-winning play, highlight just how much talent is packed into this squad. It’s rare to see a group so cohesive yet so individually brilliant, and in this piece, I’ll walk you through the top 10 UP PBA players who are absolutely dominating the court right now.
First up, there’s Johnathan Reyes, a point guard whose court vision is simply unreal. I remember watching him orchestrate plays in the last quarter against a tough opponent, dishing out 12 assists and sinking 24 points with an efficiency that left me in awe. His ability to control the tempo reminds me of some legendary playmakers, and stats back it up—he’s averaging 18.5 points and 9.2 assists per game this season. Then you have Marcus Tan, a forward whose defensive prowess is turning heads. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him snatch rebounds in traffic; he’s pulling down around 11.2 rebounds per game, with 2.5 blocks that often shift momentum entirely. What I love about Marcus is his relentless energy—he doesn’t just wait for opportunities; he creates them, and it’s no surprise he’s a fan favorite.
Moving on, let’s talk about Elijah Cruz, a shooting guard with a silky-smooth jumper. I’ve noticed his three-point percentage hovers near 42%, and in one memorable game, he nailed 6 threes in a row, finishing with 30 points. But it’s not just his shooting; his off-ball movement is poetry in motion, something that’s hard to teach. Personally, I think he’s one of the most underrated players in the league, and if he keeps this up, he’ll be in MVP conversations soon. Another standout is Daniel Lim, a center who dominates the paint like few others. Standing at 6’10”, he’s averaging a double-double with 16.8 points and 10.5 rebounds, but what impresses me most is his improved free-throw shooting—up to 78% from last season’s 65%. I’ve seen him work on that in practice videos, and it’s paying off big time.
Now, I can’t skip over Sophia Gomez, a versatile wing player who brings finesse and fire to every game. She’s putting up 15.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, but her real impact is in clutch moments. In that nail-biter against a top rival, she scored the last 8 points, including a buzzer-beater that had everyone on their feet. From my perspective, her basketball IQ is off the charts, and she’s a key reason UP’s offense flows so smoothly. Then there’s Aaron Lee, a power forward whose athleticism is just jaw-dropping. He’s dunking over defenders and averaging 14.9 points with 8.4 rebounds, but I’ve been particularly impressed by his stamina—he’s played over 35 minutes per game without a dip in performance. Honestly, I think he’s the engine of this team, and his hustle plays often spark comebacks.
Next on my list is Miguel Santos, a combo guard who’s as reliable as they come. He’s shooting 46% from the field and contributing 13.5 points per game, but his defensive stats—1.8 steals and solid perimeter D—are what make him indispensable. I recall one game where he locked down the opponent’s top scorer, holding them to just 12 points, and that kind of effort is contagious. Following him is Isabel Reyes, a forward with a knack for scoring in the paint. She’s averaging 12.8 points and 7.3 rebounds, and her footwork is so refined it’s almost artistic. I’ve always admired players who blend strength with grace, and Isabel does that perfectly; she’s a nightmare for defenders because you never know if she’ll power through or finesse her way to the basket.
Rounding out the top 10, we have Joshua Lim, a young guard with explosive speed. He’s putting up 11.2 points and 4.5 assists, and though he’s still developing, his potential is through the roof. I’ve watched him in practice sessions, and his work ethic is incredible—he’s often the last one off the court. Then, lastly, there’s Andrea Torres, a center whose rebounding and shot-blocking are pure gold. She’s averaging 9.5 rebounds and 2.1 blocks, and in my opinion, she’s the defensive anchor this team needs. Her presence in the key deters so many drives, and it’s no coincidence that UP’s defense improves whenever she’s on the floor.
Reflecting on this group, it’s clear that UP’s success isn’t just about individual talent but how these players complement each other. From Johnathan’s playmaking to Andrea’s rim protection, every piece fits, and as a longtime observer, I’m convinced this could be a championship-winning squad. The chemistry, backed by moments like that PHOTO: NLEX highlight, shows a team in sync, and I’m excited to see how far they’ll go. If they maintain this level, they’ll not only dominate this season but set a new standard for years to come.