For years, it seemed as if there was some distance between Dalph Panopio and the Philippines. Panopio was part of the Gilas Youth program, having been part of the U18 team that finished fourth in the 2018 FIBA U18 Asian Championship and the U19 squad that placed 14th in the 2019 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup. 

Following those stints, there were rumors that Panopio would pursue college basketball in the Philippines, where he had no shortage of suitors. However, Panopio ended up in South Plains Junior College before transferring to the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners. 

When his stint with the Roadrunners ended, there was talk he could be a one-and-done player in the UAAP. But, Panopio decided to go pro. A KBL stint with Suwon KT was cut short before it even started due to an injury. However, he eventually found a spot with the INBL’s Mumbai Titans, where he found his groove. 

Six years after last representing the Philippines, though, Panopio felt it was time to come home. 

Panopio threw his name into the PBA Season 50 Draft and was a full participant in the draft combine. The 25-year old was able to show his skillset forged through years of hard work, something the Blackwater Bossing took notice of in their decision to select the guard with the third overall pick. 

The Bossing are not in the championship chase, but this may be the year they finally decide to ditch the farm team label and make a postseason run. Blackwater selected Panopio along with six others not just to inject youth, but also those that can contribute immediately. The Bossing have a budding core in Sedrick Barefield and Christian David and the addition of Panopio will provide Blackwater with stability at the guard position. Barefield can truly focus on scoring, while Panopio can take the lead in setting up the offense and providing an additional threat that Barefield and David can work off. 

There will likely be some growing pains for Panopio as he adjusts to the local style of play while also familiarizing himself with Bossing head coach Jeff Cariaso’s system. However, the opportunities are there for Panopio to maximize. After all, a player of his caliber will be given a longer leash considering Blackwater needs him more than he needs them. 

Of course, there is this worry that the Bossing will only be a temporary stop for Dalph Panopio. Blackwater has had the tendency of sending away productive players, rendering rebuilding their efforts moot. Regardless, this is something beyond Panopio’s control and his focus should be on getting his PBA career off on a good note. Where he ends up won’t matter when he is a consistently productive player no matter what jersey he puts on.