Red Lions find Ekwe replacement

Now that Nigerian Sam Ekwe has played out his NCAA eligibility, San Beda College recruited a redoubtable replacement and Red Lions senior men’s basketball coach Frankie Lim said 6-7 Sudan Daniel is a perfect fit for the team’s running game.

Last May, Lim was in Los Angeles with the Talk ‘N’ Text team when he announced an open tryout for high school cagers interested to enroll in a prestigious Manila school and play for the varsity.

Seven players showed up and Lim was impressed by the lithe, long-armed Daniel.

“What I like about Sudan is his ability to block shots,” said Lim. “For a big guy, he runs the floor well. He’s perfect for our transition game. He’s not as strong as Sam but he gets the job done. He has a good medium range shot and can post up.”

Daniel, 20, was invited to fly to Manila and check out San Beda. It was an offer he wouldn’t refuse.  

“The trip was my first outside the US,” said Daniel. “I was nervous and excited. I’d heard about the Philippines and how popular basketball is with Filipinos from my Fil-Am friends in L. A. I like to travel and I thought it was a great opportunity to get a good education and play basketball. My mom encouraged me to go for it. I know I made the right decision.”

Daniel learned how to play the game when he was eight years old. His father Bernard and older sister Mytrice were former high school players. They took Daniel to the playground and taught him the basics.

“My sis used to kick my butt playing,” he said. “She was really good. She could’ve gone on to play in college but got injured.”

Daniel, the third of four children, comes from a close-knit family. His father, now retired, dabbles in auto repair and his mother Patrice Collette is an anger management counselor.

Two years ago, he had the Superman logo tattooed on his chest. “I love what the logo stands for,” he said. “I don’t see it as a symbol of superhuman powers. I see it as a symbol of hope, peace and love.”

Daniel made his mark at Burroughs High School where he averaged 18 points, seven rebounds, five blocked shots and four steals a game. Then, he transferred to Dominguez High in Compton, California, where NBA stars Tyson Chandler and Tayshaun Prince played. While awaiting clearance for his transfer, Daniel heard about the open tryout for a Philippine varsity from coach Dave Wilson at Joe Abunassar’s camp in Carson City.

Since arriving here, Daniel has become a popular figure on the Mendiola campus. He stays at the Lions quarters with at least 12 teammates and can’t wait for the next NCAA season to start.

“Sudan is playing for us in the Fr. Martin Cup,” said Lim, who piloted San Beda to titles the last two NCAA seasons. “One game, he had 12 blocks. He’s consistently putting up double-double figures. He’s coachable and that’s important.”

Daniel said Ekwe has been like a big brother and advises him on how to get the most of his stay here.

“Sam is a big influence,” he went on. “He told me I should never lose focus on my No. 1 priority – to get a good education. Sam himself is a good student. Studying to earn a degree is my goal. As for playing, my goal is to win championships for San Beda. What fans can expect from me is high energy. I’m a believer of teamwork. That’s what will bring us more championships.”

Daniel said he’s bonded nicely with his teammates and San Beda alumni.

“I really appreciate all the support,” he said. “I hang out with my teammates after school and go to movies with them. I love the alumni boosters and how they’re loyal to our school.”

Daniel said even if he’s lived here only a few months, he’s sure Manila is a place where he could settle down for good.

“I can see myself living in Manila permanently,” he said. “The people are warm and hospitable. I like Filipino food. I’m open to eating anything. Although I’m a Christian, I go to Mass every Sunday. My message to the San Beda fans is next season, just watch and enjoy the show.”