La Salle recruit Kyle Perez transfers to Lyceum in NCAA

Photo source: NABA Intercity

The Lyceum Pirates added an intriguing talent in 6-foot-4 wing player Kyle Perez, who confirmed his move to the NCAA-based team to ALL-STAR Magazine.

Perez initially committed to La Salle last year but has since moved for a better chance to showcase his capabilities.

“I moved for a better opportunity and just more playing time in general, because to be honest I wasn’t really being used at La Salle, but it’s understandable because I’m new around here [in the Philippines]. They haven’t really seen me play, so it’s just a new adventure at this point.”

The New Jersey-based standout is only 20-years-old. He played Division III basketball previously with Union College and suited up for the North America team in the PSL Showcase in Manila.

Perez, who was mentored by former UST great and PBA player Dale Singson, will have to sit out a year of residency and begin his four years of playing eligibility in 2025.

The athletic prospect clarified that DLSU treated him “very well” and it was a personal decision to explore what other possibilities are out there.

“Me and my dad, we spoke to [La Salle] coach Topex Robinson. We told him first out of all the coaches for respect. I didn’t want to burn any bridges, because you never know in the future what could happen. It started trickling down to all coaches, saying thank you for the experience.”

Perez is enjoying his time in Lyceum. The next step to finalize his move will be to participate in the rookie initiation process.

“I’m fitting in very well. It’s very welcoming over there. They treat me like a family member. I just got to get my haircut. I got to buzz my hair to feel really welcome in there.”

When asked to explain the difference of the UAAP and NCAA style of play, Perez responded: “The NCAA is a lot different. The UAAP is more finesse. Here it’s more physicality, so I feel I can bring my finesse to the physicality.”