After two years, Francis Lopez is moving on to the pros.
The athletic 6-foot-6 winger has bid farewell to University of the Philippines as he prepares to sign with B.League team, Flying Eagles Nagoya.
But rather than feel sad about his departure, UP is supporting the 21-year-old’s decision, knowing that it will benefit both his growth as a player and his family.
“’Di tayo dapat malungkot dahil nakaka-proud itong gagawin ni Francis. He’s the latest proof that what we do works and our student-athletes give pride to the UP community,” said UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Lopez played 36 games with the Fighting Maroons, averaging 10.22 points and 5.86 rebounds per game. He was named Rookie of the Year in UAAP Season 86 before making the leap last season.
In his sophomore year, Lopez averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game, playing a pivotal role in Game 3 of the Finals.
Now, he joins Carl Tamayo, JD Cagulangan, and former State U players Javi and Juan Gomez de Liano as Asian imports in the professional leagues in Japan and Korea.
“Thank you to the UP Fighting Maroons and the UP Community for the wonderful two years. I will never forget it. UP Fight forever,” Lopez said.
As the UP Men’s Basketball Team supports his decision, they remain focused on defending their title, with Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Janjan Felicilda, Reyland Torres, Terrence Fortea, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat leading the charge.
