Tucker Molina commits to Mapúa Cardinals, set to join NCAA

Filipino-American basketball player Tucker Molina has officially committed to join the Mapúa Cardinals, confirming his intention to bring his game to the NCAA in the Philippines. The 6-foot-8 forward will have two years of eligibility starting in Season 102 after completing his one-year residency with the university.

Molina, a product of Glacier Peak High School in Washington and a former player for Arizona Christian University, brings size, versatility, and two-way potential to the Cardinals’ roster. In the 2023–24 season with ACU, he appeared in 29 games and averaged 4.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. He also posted efficient shooting splits, hitting 50 percent from the field and 35.3 percent from beyond the arc, while adding a notable 26 blocks over the season.

Molina chose to commit to Mapua instead of DLSU or UST.

His commitment follows a strong showing in the Sinag Liga Asya Junior World Showcase Mindanao Cup earlier this year, where he was named tournament MVP and earned a spot in the Mythical Five. That performance helped raise his profile among Philippine scouts and coaches, leading to recruitment interest from programs.

Molina’s move was confirmed through his camp, led by the Quintana brothers, who have been managing his transition. His addition is expected to add depth and interior presence to a Mapúa squad that has been active in strengthening its core for the upcoming seasons. The Cardinals are gunning for back-to-back men’s basketball titles this year.

With a year to adjust and prepare during residency, Molina will have time to integrate into the Cardinals’ system and adapt to the Philippine collegiate basketball environment. His arrival is part of a broader trend of Fil-Am athletes returning to the Philippines to pursue opportunities in the NCAA, UAAP, and other leagues.

For more college basketball recruitment news, view here.