By Joaquin Luis E. Quesada
File photo from UAAP 82

Kenneth Tuffin of Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws has been selected as 44th overall pick by the Taranaki Mountainairs in the 2020 New Zealand National Basketball League (NZNBL) Draft.

“I was quite happy to have my name called out. I attended a few pre-draft work outs and the management said they would draft me which was quite nice to hear,” Tuffin told FEU Advocate in an online interview.

Even though he is playing in a semi pro-league, the 23-year-old had the blessing of FEU before he submitted his name to the draft.

As reported by Tiebraker Times last June 24, FEU Athletics Director Mark Molina received clearance for University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) which proves that the New Zealand NBL is a semi pro-league and Tuffin is yet to turn pro.

“I just saw this as an opportunity to get better…” the FEU captain expressed upon joining.

The Fil-Kiwi is enjoying the experience in the said international league, as he looks forward to more games. He added that he is excited to return in the Philippines with his FEU teammates for his final year with them.

Moreover, Tuffin also plans to play professional here in the country, “After I finish my last playing year in FEU.”

In just four games, the six-foot-four small forward averaged 14.5 points on an efficient 57.1 % on the field – doing it all in 24.8 minutes per game.

The Mountainairs will return on court against Manawatu Jets, July 5.