Former NBA head coach Byron Scott spent an entire week in the Philippines to take part in the 2025 Smart NBTC National Finals.
The 2008 NBA Coach of the Year observed teams and met players from all over the country — but one young star stood out the most to him: reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player Kieffer Alas.
“There’s a couple of players, but the only problem is I don’t know their names. Number 18 tonight — he’s so smooth,” said Scott.
“Kieffer, yeah, he’s so smooth and so good with the ball.”
Alas gave Scott and Fil-Am Nation all they could handle in the championship game on Sunday.
The 6-foot-2 wingman poured in 20 points, along with two rebounds and two assists, almost singlehandedly keeping Phenom Bluefire within striking distance.
Despite Alas’ efforts, Fil-Am Nation emerged victorious, 64-59, to retain their crown.
But it was clear that the young Filipino had earned the admiration of the former NBA mentor, who even likened Alas’ playing style to NBA superstar Luka Dončić.
“He almost has a Luka Dončić type of style, where you don’t think he’s going to get by you, but he does,” Scott noted.
“He has a really good tempo to his movement. He understands how to use his body, he can shoot the ball, and he’s great at the free-throw line. Like I said, he has a very high basketball IQ.”
Alas is preparing to fly to Australia after the academic year to continue training as he prepares for his eventual move to the United States.
And according to Scott, the young gun has what it takes — both physically and mentally — to chase his dream.
“He’s probably the one who impressed me the most,” Scott concluded.
