Filipino basketball star Arvin Tolentino is officially embarking on a new chapter in his career, having signed a three-year deal with the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League (KBL). The announcement, made on May 30, 2025, marks the end of Tolentino’s five-year stint in the PBA, most recently with the NorthPort Batang Pier.
The move sees Tolentino, a versatile small forward and power forward, replace fellow Filipino import Juan Gomez de Liaño on the Seoul SK Knights roster. This transition comes after Tolentino’s contract with NorthPort expired at the end of April, and despite receiving a counteroffer from his PBA team, he ultimately chose the opportunity to play overseas.
Tolentino’s decision to join the KBL powerhouse, who were runners-up in the recent 2024-25 KBL season, signals a significant step in his professional journey. In an exclusive interview, the 29-year-old expressed his excitement for the “new environment and new league,” highlighting the desire for personal and professional growth outside of the Philippines. He also emphasized the importance of his family joining him in South Korea, a factor that heavily influenced his decision.
His departure from the PBA comes on the heels of a stellar run with NorthPort. Tolentino was named the Best Player of the Conference in the 2024-25 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, a testament to his blossoming game and leadership. His PBA accolades also include two championships with Barangay Ginebra, multiple PBA All-Star selections, and recognition in the PBA Mythical Teams.
In a recent interview, Arvin Tolentino confirmed that he has no regrets about his decision to leave the PBA and embark on a new journey with the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).
“Wala naman akong pinagsisihan na desisyon (I don’t have any regrets about the decision),” Tolentino stated on One News’ Play By Play, following his signing with the KBL team. He emphasized that his past struggles and challenges were instrumental in bringing him to this point in his career.
Tolentino’s move to the KBL is seen by many as a prime example of the increasing global opportunities for Filipino basketball talent, allowing players to maximize their financial prospects and explore new competitive challenges. As he prepares to join the Seoul SK Knights, Tolentino is expected to bring his all-around prowess and scoring punch to the Korean hardcourt, facing a new level of competition and aiming to contribute to the Knights’ success in the upcoming KBL season.
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