Opportunities don’t come often, and when they do, you seize them.
For Jake Figueroa, that moment has arrived.
Fresh off a five-season stint with National University, the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Basketball Tournament Elite Team member is ready to take his game to the next level as he begins a one-year contract with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis in the Korean Basketball League.
“Sobrang di kapani-paniwala na pro ako kasi yung nga nasa international ako,” said the 6-foot-3 winger from Pampanga. “Di ko naman alam o expected na may mag scout sa akin at makita ako maglaro.
“Kahit papano, kung sakaling nandun na ako, showcase ko talent ko as a Filipino sa Korea. Sa NU naman, nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng NU community, sa coaches, sa teammates ko siyempre dahil tinulungan nila ako makaabot sa ganito.”
Figueroa follows in the footsteps of former Bulldogs Bobby Ray Parks Jr. and Migz Oczon, joining the growing list of NU players landing professional contracts abroad.
While the prospect excites him, Figueroa is fully aware of the challenges ahead.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
From language barriers to adjusting to a new team’s system and the Korean climate, he knows adaptation will be key.
“Ibang culture doon, ibang atmosphere so kakabisaduhin ko muna para maging fit sa system and maging fit din ako sa team,” he said.
Despite the hurdles, the three-time UAAP bronze medalist is confident in his ability to succeed.
NU and Figueroa part ways with mutual respect and fond memories.
The former UAAP Boys’ Basketball MVP leaves behind a legacy as one of the Bulldogs’ standout talents, remembering the camaraderie and support of his teammates and coaches.
“Legacy siguro ay yun nga nag-number one seed kami,” said Figueroa. “Alam naman namin na 100-percent kami every game dahil pinapakita namin yung best namin.
“Sa KBL, ayoko muna magsalita kasi wala pa ako doon. Gusto ko muna may maipakita at ma-showcase ko yung talent ko doon.”
#WATCH: JAKE’S ONE SHOT
Jake Figueroa knows he needs to impress in his first year with #KBL club Ulsan Hyundai Mobis 🐶 🏀#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/dDaYfrOW87
📹 @lorenzodelc /Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/ly7Bm5LIqb
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) December 14, 2025
