By Joaquin Luis E. Quesada

Kenneth Tuffin’s journey with the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws came to an end after announcing last December 21 that he decided to forgo his last season in University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). 

Instead, he is now focusing on playing at New Zealand National Basketball League (NZNBL) “for a season.” 

“With the recent cancellation of UAAP Season 83 and after much thought and discussion over the last few weeks, I’ve come to the decision to forego my final playing year in FEU and instead play here in the NZNBL for a season,” he shared on a post through his official Instagram account.

The Fil-Kiwi cager thanked the team’s consultant Coach Nash Racela, former Assistant Coach Josh Reyes, FEU Athletic Director Mark Molina, and the University’s representative to the UAAP Board Antonio R. Montinola for scouting him in New Zealand back in 2015.

He also thanked FEU head coach Olsen Racela for the “guidance and trust” in him for the past three years, including his teammates. He wished them the best for their future runs.

“Words can’t [be] expressed how grateful I am and just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey in FEU,” he stated.

Prior to his decision, Tuffin was drafted 44th overall by the Taranaki Mountainairs as an amateur—preserving his eligibility in the UAAP. He averaged 9.2 points and 4.7 boards per game and shooting 43-percent shooting from deep.

As reported by Spin.ph, Tuffin is still targeting to enter the 2022 PBA Draft after his stint in NZNBL.

Ever since Tuffin joined the Morayta-based squad back in 2016, he never missed a Final Four stint. He then was appointed to be the captain of FEU that finished in the stepladder semi-finals back in UAAP season 82.

The six-foot-four winger averaged 7.5 points on 39-percent shooting from the rainbow country, with 3.7 rebounds in 19 minutes of action in season 82.

He ended the statement with a high note, thanking them for their never-ending support and hoping to see them again.

“To the FEU community, thank you so much for your support over the years and I hope you understand. This is not the end and know that I’ll see you all again,” he ended.

(File photo from Precious Diamond Farro/FEU Advocate)