Carl Tamayo will play for the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the Japan B. League.
The Japanese basketball team announced on Wednesday, January 11, that the 2021 UAAP Rookie of the Year joins the Kings under the Asian player quota system of the B.League.
"I am honored and very excited to be part of this great organization, Ryukyu Golden Kings. Can't wait to play with you guys," Tamayo said in a video posted by Ryukyu on Twitter.
Tamayo earlier announced his decision to forego his remaining playing years in the UAAP and leave the University of the Philippine Fighting Maroons in order to accept an offer to play in Japan.
"Becoming a professional basketball player is a dream I have had ever since I started playing organized basketball. It will allow me to care of my family while playing the game that I love," Tamayo said in an Instagram post.
"To the UP community and to the team’s fans, salamat kaayo; I cannot thank you enough for your prayers and for your support. Whatever colors I wear in the years to come, my heart will always bleed maroon," he added.
Tamayo served as one of the key players in the championship run of the Fighting Maroons in the men's basketball tournament of UAAP Season 84, which put an end to the 36-year-long title drought of the Katipunan-based squad.
