UAAP: Kean Baclaan departs De La Salle University

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Superstar guard Kean Baclaan will forego his final year of playing eligibility with De La Salle University (DLSU) and is set to turn professional.

On Jan. 28, 2026, the floor general clarified the circulating rumors via a lengthy social media post uploaded to his official Facebook account.

“First of all, I want to thank everyone who supported me throughout my journey,” Baclaan posted.

“I will truly miss our bond as a team, college life, the bonding moments, the challenges of every practice, and even the arguments.”

Although no specific reason was stated in his Facebook post, multiple reports confirmed that Baclaan’s decision to leave the Green Archers was driven by the need to provide for his family.

Baclaan is one of the few collegiate players who participated in several “ligang labas” games during the UAAP offseason. In those setups, high-value players like him receive payment per game, depending on the team owner’s budget.

Rumors have it that Baclaan will be playing for Caloocan in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, while others said he is waiting for a call-up overseas.

Baclaan is coming off an inspiring UAAP championship season after battling a torn medial collateral ligament in his knee. Already ruled out for the season due to the Grade III MCL injury, many were stunned when he returned just in time for the Final Four playoff round.

Despite playing limited minutes, Baclaan still played a vital role, especially in the finals against UP, where he provided much-needed shot-making and playmaking for DLSU head coach Topex Robinson.

“My two years in La Salle were more than worth it because they changed my life,” Baclaan continued.

“As of now, there is still no final decision on which team I will be joining, but wherever I go, I will always carry the Lasallian spirit with me. ANIMO!”