Porter Commits to UST Growling Tigers After Leaving Ateneo
Rising basketball talent Kristian Porter plans to join the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers according to a source, ending speculation surrounding his next move after his departure from Ateneo de Manila University.
Porter, 19, made his decision following a period of personal reflection that also included Far Eastern University (FEU) and College of Saint Benilde (CSB). Ultimately, the Cebu native chose UST as the next chapter in his athletic and academic journey, signaling a significant addition to the Final Four-contending Growling Tigers roster.
Porter made developmental progress during UAAP Season 87 with the Ateneo Blue Eagles, averaging 6.57 points and 6.86 rebounds in 14 games during his rookie year. His strong presence in the paint and aggressive rebounding provided crucial support to the team, though he also faced challenges balancing rigorous academic demands with athletic commitments.
Having come up through the Ateneo system — from Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu to Ateneo de Manila High School — Porter’s departure from the program surprised many. He cited a need for personal growth and better balance between school and basketball as key factors in his decision to leave the Blue Eagles last month. With UST, Porter is expected to have more room to grow as a key contributor rather than a role player.
UST has been aggressively recruiting fresh talent as it looks to bounce back in the UAAP standings. Porter’s commitment is a major win for the program, adding both size and versatility to its frontline. At 6-foot-5, he brings physicality, rebounding, and a solid inside game — skills that should translate well in UST’s system.
Porter will sit out 2025 for residency then play the first of his two years left of eligibility starting Season 89. His addition is a sign that UST is serious about building a competitive core for the future. For Porter, it marks a fresh start and a chance to carve out a bigger role on a team that’s hungry to rise.
