Kean Baclaan has long been recognized for his ability to take over games. But in the UAAP Season 88 Finals opener, he discovered a different kind of relevance—one that doesn’t require being the focal point, yet shapes the entire flow of a championship contender.
La Salle’s 74-70 victory over University of the Philippines on Wednesday wasn’t powered by Baclaan’s scoring bursts or isolation plays. Instead, it was driven by his steadying presence, the kind that keeps a team’s pulse calm in the chaos of the Finals. And the veteran guard is fully embracing that identity.
“We’re already here in the Finals, so whatever role is given to me, I’ll take it,” he said in Filipino after the win at Mall of Asia Arena. “Coach Topex trusts me, and I’ll respond to whatever the team needs.”
Baclaan came off the bench—a contrast to his lead-guard years at National University and the early part of his La Salle tenure. But the numbers show how deeply he influenced the game: nine points, six assists, two rebounds, and a steal in just 17 minutes. More importantly, he orchestrated stretches where La Salle kept its composure while the pace swung wildly.
His season took a sharp turn after suffering an MCL injury in the first round, opening the door for Jacob Cortez to emerge as the team’s primary engine. By the time Baclaan returned in the Final Four—ironically against NU—Cortez had already seized the reins. Baclaan’s new role was clear.
But to him, it’s not about hierarchy. It’s about harmony.
“Jacob is Jacob,” Baclaan said, smiling. “He does so much for us, but he can’t do everything every minute. When he rests, I want to make sure we don’t lose our rhythm. That’s my job.”
And he did it flawlessly. Cortez erupted for 21 points, including the decisive triple that held off the Maroons, partly because Baclaan bought him the breathing space to stay fresh for winning time.
In a series defined by depth, poise, and adjustments, Baclaan’s willingness to reshape his game may be one of La Salle’s biggest advantages. The Finals aren’t always won by the loudest performances—but often by the players who understand exactly when to step forward and when to step back.
On Sunday, as La Salle looks to finish the job in Game 2, Baclaan is ready once more to steady the ship, keep the pace, and fill the gaps that don’t always show up on highlight reels.
“I’m here to do whatever keeps us moving,” he said. “That’s what matters now.”
