Despite missing the Final Four for the third consecutive season, Far Eastern University ended their UAAP Season 87 campaign with a brighter outlook than their previous seasons.
Veejay Pre and Mo Konateh both delivered standout performances in 2024, and their impressive play earned them well-deserved recognition.
Konateh, the Gambian big man, was named to the UAAP Mythical Five in his first season, with averages of 10.21 points, 16.71 rebounds, and 2.36 blocks. He dominated the league with his defensive presence and rebounding effort.
“I would like to thank my teammates, my coaches, and my FEU community for helping me to get this award. I would try to do my best to go farther than this year and hopefully, we get the Finals next year, that’s the goal,” said the 6-foot-10 center.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Meanwhile, Pre was named Rookie of the Year after averaging a team-high 13.29 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.36 assists, starting all 14 games for head coach Sean Chambers.
The 6-foot-5 Pampanga native became just the seventh Tamaraw in the past 35 years to receive this award, joining the likes of Johnny Abarrientos (Season 52), Mark Victoria (Season 59), Leo Avenido (Season 62), Arwind Santos (Season 65), JR Cawaling (Season 70), and Terrence Romeo (Season 73).
Despite his historic achievement, Pre made sure to emphasize his hunger for more success.
“Masaya ako kasi nakasama ako doon pero mas masaya siguro pag naka-champion and nakapasok ng playoffs, but ‘yon ang goal next season,” he said.
Konateh and Pre’s standout performances helped FEU come just a game away from making the Final Four, finishing the season with a 5-8 record, good for 6th place in the standings.
With the two young stars continuing to grow alongside other key players like Janrey Pasaol and Jedrick Daa, the Tamaraws are ready to rediscover their winning ways in Season 88.
“Mas hungry kami next season and gagawin namin motivation ito for next season para sa next season ready na ready kami,” declared Pre.
