FILE–Kean Baclaan during a game against La Salle in the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRERnet
MANILA, Philippines — Kean Baclaan became the latest transferee to La Salle as he reunited with his childhood friend Kevin Quiambao after deciding to leave National University.
Baclaan on Saturday confirmed to Inquirer that he is taking his act to Taft after a report came out that he officially transferred to the school.
The 21-year-old guard will sit out for one year to serve his residency before returning to UAAP men’s basketball action in Season 88 in 2025.
Baclaan joined San Beda University champion guard Jacob Cortez, who decided to follow the footsteps of his father, Mike, last January — a month after winning the Season 99 title against Mapua.
The former La Salle-Zobel player committed to the University of Santo Tomas in 2022 and played in preseason leagues but he had a change of heart and enrolled at NU.
He was part of the Bulldogs’ back-to-back Final Four appearances, settling for bronze anew in Season 85 after losing to the Green Archers in the Final Four.
Baclaan shone in his sophomore season, averaging 10.7 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds.
Baclaan could have an on-court reunion with Quiambao in 2025 if the latter decides to play one more season as the reigning Season 85 and Finals MVP has been receiving offers overseas after his stellar showing in the UAAP and even in Strong Group Athletics’ silver medal finish in the Dubai International Basketball Championship, where he earned a Mythical team nod.