MANILA, Philippines — Following months of speculations, Veejay Pre has finally said farewell to the Far Eastern University Tamaraws.
Previously, the UAAC Season 87 men’s basketball Rookie of the Year, shared an extensive Facebook post to officially declare his exit from the premises of the Morayta team.
He mentioned that he and his relatives reached a conclusion together.
"I think that departing and uttering 'farewell' is always difficult, and finding acceptance is the hardest part," he mentioned in a Wednesday night posting around midnight.
"As an athlete, personal development holds great importance for me. However, at certain points in life, we encounter obstacles that force tough choices upon us. After careful consideration with my loved ones, we've reached a conclusion, and I’ve decided to listen to their insights and worries," he stated.
This realization showed me just how much they desire the absolute best for me. It’s undeniable that making such a significant move has proven to be the toughest choice I’ve had to make.
Pre, who is easily considered one of the ascending talents in the UAAP, has found himself at the center of speculations for several months now.
The FEU head coach, Sean Chambers, previously mentioned that Pre's "passion and dedication" is to continue being part of the Tamaraws.
However, Chambers revealed that the teenager's family is reportedly urging him to depart from the institution.
In his statement, Pre expressed gratitude to FEU for allowing him to be part of their team.
"I am immensely grateful for the transformative and delightful moments and chances you've bestowed upon me and my family. FEU means so much to me, and I will forever cherish the kind acts, memories, challenges, sorrows, and joys we have experienced together," he expressed.
"I will always be thankful as a 'Tamaraw' and for having experienced the vibrant life that FEU and its community offer," he mentioned additionally.
He also expressed gratitude to his former teammates and coaches.
"I am deeply grateful for your tremendous support and for making these past five years some of the most significant memories in my life. You've become like family and close friends to me. Each of you holds a special place in my heart," he stated.
Forever grateful and filled with joy knowing that at some point in my life, I was referred to as a 'TAMARAW.' To have been a 'Tamaraw' means it stays with me forever.
At present, Pre’s destination remains uncertain. However, he is anticipated to attract interest from leading universities. Should he move to a UAAP institution, he would be required to observe a one-year waiting period and forfeit two years of athletic eligibility.
The forward averaged 13.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over 14 elimination round games. Thanks to his leadership in orchestrating the team’s attack, FEU nearly secured a spot in the Final Four with a 5-9 record.
Apart from Pre, Ateneo's Kristian Porter previously declared his exit from the Blue Eagles squad.