Francis Lopez leaves UP, turns pro in Japan B. League

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Francis Lopez foregoes his three remaining years in the UAAP as the UP Fighting Maroons defend their crown without the high-flying forward

MANILA, Philippines – Add Francis Lopez to the list of UP standouts who have taken their acts to overseas leagues.

The high-flying Lopez will not return for the Fighting Maroons next UAAP season as he joins the Fighting Eagles Nagoya in the Japan B. League, UP announced on Monday, April 28.

Lopez is foregoing his three remaining years in the UAAP as the Fighting Maroons defend their UAAP crown without the 21-year-old standout.

“Thank you to the UP Fighting Maroons and the UP community for the wonderful two years. I will never forget it. UP fight forever,” said Lopez in a statement.

Lopez won Rookie of the Year in Season 86 then played a pivotal role as the Fighting Maroons ruled Season 87, dethroning the La Salle Green Archers for their second championship in four seasons.

He averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks, playing all 18 games for the team in Season 87.

Once a Gilas Pilipinas project, Lopez is the latest UP player to pursue a foreign career after the likes of Carl Tamayo, JD Cagulangan, and Juan and Javi Gomez de Liaño, who are all signed to Korean Basketball League teams.

Although Lopez is a significant loss to the program, UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director Bo Perasol said the move of the athletic forward should be celebrated.

“We should not be sad because what Francis is doing is something to be proud of. He is the latest proof that what we do works and our student-athletes give pride to the UP community,” said Perasol.

The Fighting Eagles sit at 13th place in the current B. League season with a 28-30 record. – Rappler.com