A DAY AFTER James Payosing’s transfer to the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, homegrown UP cager and University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) champion Aldous Torculas, announced his departure from UP and has committed to the San Beda Red Lions and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

A product of the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Junior Fighting Maroons, the six-foot-four 20-year-old spent three seasons with the UP Fighting Maroons. Torculas posted averages of 3.87 points and 2.33 rebounds per game in his recent and now last, UAAP 87 championship season with UP. 

The UAAP’s eligibility rules influenced Torculas’ decision to transfer to the NCAA via the Red Lions, where transferring within the association grants a two-year deduction from playing year eligibility along with one-year of residency. Moreover, citing aspirations for professional basketball after his collegiate career, San Beda’s history of producing and developing established players in the professional ranks also contributed to Torculas’ transfer to the Lion’s Den. 

His move to San Beda ensures that his two-playing years of eligibility remain intact after he serves his residency year this 2025. Expected to suit up for the Season 102 of the NCAA, he joins the likes of Daniel Marcelo from Centro Escolar University (CEU) and Dominic Saragumba from Eastern University in the United States – both currently serving their residency year.  

With the departure of a key figure in the Red Lions Season 99 championship victory in Payosing, Torculas adds a much-needed championship pedigree and experience to the San Beda Red Lions. 

Editor’s Note: The Bedan is in the process of reaching out to Aldous Torculas and certain officials from the Athletics Department. This article will be updated with their response.