The University of the Philippines had one huge hole to fill with the departures of Francis Lopez and Aldous Torculas.
The question at the men’s basketball team’s (MBT) four position now has an answer in UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year Veejay Pre.
The 6-foot-5 versatile forward will sit out the upcoming Season 88 before being eligible for two years for the Fighting Maroons as a much-welcome plug-and-play big for head coach Goldwin Monteverde.
“We know naman yung kayang gawin ni Veejay. Magiging malaking tulong siya sa atin with his all-around game,” said the champion coach.
Pre’s transfer transpired with a bit of help from luck for State U, which was never in the picture when he and his family began entertaining offers to move.
As the saga dragged on, however, UP made a late push to secure the services of the 19 year old who is set to be a ready-made replacement for high-flyer Lopez and energizer Torculas.
“What’s fortunate about all this is that hindi naman tayo nandun when reports and rumors began. We respected FEU, and kinausap lang natin si Veejay nung nakapag-decide at nakapagpaalam na siya sa FEU,” said Office of Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol.
A few weeks ago, Pre was dead set on remaining a Tamaraw, which was contrary to his family’s advice. Last Wednesday, he then acknowledged that his parents in particular “only want the best for me” in his farewell to the Morayta-based school.
Now, the Pampanga product will bring his all-around game to the maroon-and-green, hopeful to build on his averages of 13.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in his first year in college.
While Pre serves his residency, the Fighting Maroons’ sights are still set on defending their title with Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat at the forefront.
