Francisco Rodriguez-Malagon

Congratulations to Francisco Rodriguez-Malagon, age 17, a standout student at Nashua High School South, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year!

PAL Gate City Thunder Basketball coaching staff: Head Coach Shawn Nieves and assistants Angel Amparo and Gary Spearman, had no hesitation in naming Francisco Rodriguez-Malecon as the PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year. In his very first year on the squad, Francisco quickly established himself as both the team’s top scorer and floor leader, directing plays, communicating with teammates, and setting the tone on both offense and defense.

At just 16 years old, Francisco is a junior at Nashua South High School, where his favorite subjects are English and Math. His PAL journey began in April 2024, soon after his family’s arrival from the Dominican Republic. His cousin — and now PAL Basketball teammate — Kelian DeJesus introduced him to the PAL St. Patrick’s Gym downtown, and Francisco has been an afterschool regular ever since.

Francisco’s drive and love for the game have already made an impact at the high school level. He made the Nashua South varsity team as a sophomore and is eagerly preparing for the upcoming season. Longtime South head coach Nate Mazerolle shared: “Francisco is one of the most devoted and passionate basketball players I have ever encountered. He loves the game and wants to continually improve. He cherishes being on the South team and is a tremendous teammate who loves to see others succeed. And, he is an even better young man. He is ready to shock the state in high school hoop.”

Congratulations, Francisco, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year!