Carl Manding Reverses Course, Returns to UST for College

With reports from ALL-STAR’s Flo del Agua

In a surprising development, promising Filipino basketball talent Carl Manding has decided to return to the University of Santo Tomas (UST) to continue his collegiate basketball career as a Growling Tiger. Multiple sources close to Manding have confirmed to ALL-STAR Magazine that the young forward will forgo his previously announced commitment to Ateneo de Manila University.

Manding had initially made headlines when he transferred from the UST Tiger Cubs to Ateneo, signaling his ambition to develop under Coach Tab Baldwin’s program. After graduating from UST Senior High School, the 6’2″ forward cited the challenge of growing both as an athlete and a person as reasons for joining Ateneo’s Blue Eagles roster in UAAP Season 88.

The 17-year-old’s early career already showed significant promise. Manding was a key player in UST’s UAAP Season 87 high school championship run, helping the Tiger Cubs capture their first title in 24 years. He also represented the Philippines at the 2024 FIBA U18 Asia Cup, further proving his potential on the national stage.

However, recent developments suggest a change of heart. Manding’s farewell post to UST on Instagram has been deleted or archived, fueling speculation about his return. Sources indicate that he will now play out his collegiate eligibility with UST’s Growling Tigers, u-turning from Ateneo’s offer and returning to his roots.

This move may be seen as Manding prioritizing loyalty and familiarity in a critical phase of his development. With five years of collegiate eligibility ahead, he is expected to bring his growing skill set back to UST, a program familiar with his style and potential.

UST fans will be watching closely as Carl Manding recommits to the Growling Tigers, aiming to build on his early success and emerge as one of the UAAP’s rising performers.