Alas to skip final year at Letran

MANILA, Philippines – Kevin Alas, one of the country's top amateur players, will skip his fifth and final year as a Letran Knight in the NCAA to concentrate on playing for the cadet team of the Smart Gilas Pilipinas II.

Accompanied by his father, former Letran coach and now Alaska Milk assistant Louie, the younger Alas informed no less than Season 88 NCAA and Letran president-rector Fr. Tamerlane Lana, OP, his decision in a meeting today.

"I want to concentrate on the national team and I also want to give way to younger, equally talented players at Letran," said Alas.

"It was a tough decision for me but I really want to give my full commitment to national team duties," he added.

Alas, who has emerged as one of college basketball's prolific offensive weapons, however, stressed he will not neglect his studies.

"Of course, my studies will remain a priority," said Alas, who was adjudged the Finals MVP of the Hong Kong joust the Gilas team topped last month.

Interestingly, the departure of Alas came just months after his father submitted his irrevocable resignation and was eventually replaced by Caloy Garcia, a former alumnus and PBA coach.

Alas' departure will also leave him with one nagging regret as he went out failing to help the Muralla-based dribblers win a championship.