Alas Targets NCAA DI as UAAP Powerhouses Await Homecoming
Kieffer Alas is entering a pivotal stretch of his young career with a clear priority in mind: securing an NCAA Division I scholarship in the United States.
Sources say the Filipino basketball phenom is focused on maximizing his senior year in American prep basketball as he continues to position himself for high-level college recruitment.
Alas is currently studying at Utah Prep, a move made after a short stint at Layton Christian Academy. The transfer was driven by development considerations. Within recruiting circles, Alas is already drawing interest from NCAA Division II programs, while continuing to pursue Division I opportunities as his primary goal.
If a Division I offer does not materialize, a return to the Philippines for college basketball remains a strong option.
Sources indicate Alas is weighing three UAAP power programs should he decide to play locally: Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, and the University of the Philippines. All three programs have been consistent contenders in recent UAAP seniors seasons and offer different development paths.
Alas’ resume makes him one of the most closely followed Filipino prospects of his generation.
He was the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ MVP with De La Salle Zobel, where he posted averages of just over 20 points, 11 rebounds, and nearly five assists per game.
On the international stage, he represented the Philippines in FIBA youth competitions, including the FIBA U16 Asia Championship, where he averaged 15.4 points and 8.6 rebounds against top regional competition.
Read our ALL-STAR Magazine Profile on Kieffer Alas here:
Standing 6-foot-2 with wing versatility, Alas has been praised for his scoring instincts, rebounding ability, and feel for the game.
Ateneo remains one of the most stable programs in the UAAP seniors division, despite recent missed Final Four seasons. The Blue Eagles have been perennial contenders over the past decade, highlighted by multiple championships and Finals appearances under mentor Tab Baldwin.
Even amid roster transitions in recent campaigns, Ateneo has maintained a reputation for strong player development, defensive structure, and well-oriented systems that translate well to professional play.
De La Salle continues to be a consistent presence at the top of the hierarchy. The Green Archers have combined elite recruiting with physical, pace-driven basketball, regularly producing pros and national team players. Recent seasons have seen La Salle return to championship glory, reinforcing its image as a destination for players seeking immediate impact roles and exposure.
RELATED: Kieffer will compete with Phenom Bluefire in the upcoming NBTC.
The University of the Philippines has undergone one of the most notable transformations in recent UAAP history. The Fighting Maroons have emerged as a sustained contender, highlighted by two championship runs and repeated Finals appearances in the Monteverde era. UP’s rise has been fueled by strong recruitment, continuity, and a modern style that has appealed to versatile players.
For Alas, the months ahead will be decisive. His senior season in the United States represents his best opportunity to break through at the Division I level, but his value at home remains undeniable.
Whether his path leads to the US NCAA or back to the UAAP, his next decision will shape not only his career trajectory but also the landscape of Philippine basketball’s next wave of stars.
Read about Kieffer’s commitment to Nike here.
