THOUGHTS | AXEL DOROMAL TO THE VIETNAM LEAGUE

NCAA | TIEBREAKER TIMES

I’ve often been critical of players transferring from one school to another, especially when they’re forced to sit out a year. That pause can take away a key competitive season right in the middle of their prime. Sure, they might stay active in other leagues, but momentum is hard to maintain.

Case in point: Axel Doromal.

After two solid seasons with the Arellano Chiefs, Doromal made a surprising move to join the EAC Generals. But let’s be honest—it felt like a botched decision. EAC doesn’t exactly have a strong track record when it comes to producing PBA talent. Currently, only Sidney Onwubere (NorthPort) and JP Maguliano (Meralco) are in the pros. The last standout was Ronjay Buenafe, arguably the best PBA product from EAC.

In Season 100, Doromal struggled to make an impact. He barely saw the court, overshadowed by King Gurtiza, Harvey Pagsanjan, and fellow Arellano transfer Wilmar Oftana, who filled the role vacated by Maguliano. Doromal averaged just 3.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 16 games. Ironically, that 2.2 APG would’ve led the Chiefs—exactly what they needed to support T-mc Ongotan, Renz Capulong, Basti Valencia, and Maverick Vinoya.

Now, Doromal’s on the move again—this time taking his talents to the Vietnam Basketball Association. It may not have the prestige of the Japan B.League or KBL, but it’s a promising opportunity for a 26-year-old guard. Filipino point guards are highly respected in Southeast Asia due to their basketball IQ and style of play, thanks to pioneers like Jai Reyes, Froilan Baguion, Jerick Cañada, and Marvin Cruz—key figures during the ASEAN Basketball League’s heyday.

With the ABL gone and Southeast Asian countries launching their own pro leagues, Doromal now has a new platform to showcase his game. Even in the Far East, guys like SJ Belangel, Migs Oczon, and now-Ginebra King RJ Abarrientos have thrived due to their smarts and skill.

Heck, even a 40-year-old Alex Cabagnot once suited up abroad to mentor young guards.

Doromal’s main hurdle now is the PBA’s crowded point guard landscape. Many guards in their mid-30s are still thriving due to their ability to shoot or distribute. And while staying in the MPBL or reclaiming a starting spot in EAC might’ve been safer, playing in Vietnam pushes him out of his comfort zone—and forces him to go up against imports. That alone can raise his stock.

If he performs well, a late PBA Draft pick isn’t out of the question. NCAA players rarely go in the first round unless they’re exceptional, but they often stick in the league longer because of their grit. Think of guys like Jio Jalalon, Nard Pinto, and Kent Salado—all former Arellano guards who made it. And Doromal’s NCAA peers—Peter Alfaro, Fran Yu, Tommy Olivario, Kurt Reyson, Jielo Razon, JL Delos Santos, and JC Cullar—also got PBA minutes despite similar odds.

At 25 (turning 26), Doromal might seem old for a rookie. But with international experience under his belt, he now brings something extra to the table—even if it’s “just” Southeast Asian experience. That could be the edge he needs.