Ranidel Rozal de Ocampo, born on December 8, 1981, in Tanza, Cavite, is one of the most respected figures in Philippine basketball. Known for his unique blend of skill, intelligence, and leadership, De Ocampo carved a remarkable career that inspired countless aspiring athletes. His journey is not just about the points he scored or the championships he won—it is about resilience, teamwork, and passion for the game.
Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall, De Ocampo possessed the size of a traditional big man but the versatility of a guard. This rare combination made him a nightmare matchup for opponents. He could shoot from long range, post up inside, pass with vision, and defend multiple positions. His basketball IQ was among the highest in the league, earning him the reputation as a “thinking player” who could adapt to any situation.
De Ocampo began his professional career in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) with the FedEx Express in 2004, where his raw talent quickly became evident. However, it was with the Talk ’N Text Tropang Texters (now TNT Tropang Giga) where he truly left his mark. As a cornerstone of the franchise, he helped lead the team to multiple PBA championships, often delivering in high-pressure moments. Fans came to know him not only for his steady scoring but also for his unshakable composure during crucial games—a quality that earned him the nickname “RDO” in basketball circles.
His impact was not confined to local leagues. As a key member of Gilas Pilipinas, the Philippine national basketball team, De Ocampo became part of historic moments in international basketball. He played an instrumental role in the team’s silver-medal finish at the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship, which secured the country’s first FIBA World Cup appearance in decades. His clutch three-point shots, timely defensive stops, and leadership on and off the court became defining memories for fans of Philippine basketball.
What set De Ocampo apart was his humility and dedication to continuous improvement. Despite his success, he never lost sight of the value of teamwork. He credited his coaches, teammates, and even opponents for helping him grow as a player. This attitude made him a beloved figure in the basketball community—not just for his achievements, but for the way he carried himself with respect and grace.
After retiring from playing, De Ocampo transitioned seamlessly into coaching, taking on the role of assistant coach for TNT Tropang 5G. In this capacity, he continues to share his knowledge, mentor young players, and contribute to the development of the next generation of PBA stars. His coaching style reflects his playing philosophy: intelligent, disciplined, and always focused on the bigger picture.
Beyond the statistics and accolades, Ranidel de Ocampo’s legacy is one of inspiration. He showed that with hard work, adaptability, and a team-first mindset, a player can transcend positions, roles, and eras. For young athletes across the Philippines, his story stands as proof that greatness is achieved not only by talent, but by character.
Ranidel de Ocampo’s journey—from a promising rookie to a PBA legend and now a guiding mentor—remains a shining example of what it means to be a true ambassador of the sport
