Alas ready to tweak game

Kieffer Alas admits his skill set still needs improvement as he eyes a stint in the US National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1.

Currently working out with the Warwick Senators in Perth, Australia, the talented 17-year-old Filipino dribbler insists that his playmaking and defense will have to be addressed as he is expected to assume the role of a point guard with the Layton Christian Academy in Utah.

Alas, a former De La Salle Zobel standout, began training with the Senators, who play in the National Basketball League 1 (NBL1) West, only last Tuesday.

“When I go to the US, I’m probably gonna be a full-time point guard there, so my passing, my dribbling, and my defense will be the main aspects to work on. Because in the Philippines, my main focus was scoring and rebounding, so I’m just gonna add those extra skills to my games to help me reach my dream of making it to Division 1,” the 6-feet-2 Alas said.

“Aside from my scoring, I need to improve on my defense and my stamina, the way I bring down the ball, and my ball-handling skills.”

With the Senators currently on top of the NBL1 West standings after winning their first seven games, Alas is expected to be in top form every scrimmage.

The Gilas Pilipinas Youth star is also learning from Warwick guards Elijah Pepper, who averages 7.33 assists, and Mitchell Clarke, who norms 6.33 dimes after three games.

While securing a US National Collegiate Athletic Association scholarship is his top priority, Alas isn’t saying no to a possible stint in the NBL if the opportunity presents itself.

After all, Gilas big man Kai Sotto played in Australia with the Adelaide 36ers before taking his talents to the Japan B.League.