(UPDATE) The FEU Tamaraws have recently lost a key player as they enter the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament during their rebuild phase.
Veejay Pre, who was named Rookie of the Year in the previous season, revealed at midnight on Wednesday that he plans to part ways with Far Eastern University (FEU). He mentioned that this decision has been the most challenging one he has had to make so far.
"I think that departing and uttering 'farewell' is always difficult, and finding acceptance is the hardest part," Pre started in a long Facebook post.
Being an athlete means valuing progress and development greatly. However, at some point in life, we encounter obstacles that force us into tough choices.
My relatives and I reached an agreement, and I decided to follow their advice and considerations. This realization underscored just how deeply they wish for my well-being, leaving me with no choice but to acknowledge that making this significant move was indeed the most challenging call I’ve had to make.
Last year, he coached the young FEU team, where they averaged 13.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. The Tamaraws ended up finishing sixth with a 5-9 record.
The expectation from the FEU side is that this 78-inch tall forward will remain and guide the Tams for at least another couple of years.
However, departing from his high school institution was seen as the optimal choice for his budding career by him and his family, catching the interest of leading programs across the country.
Pre is eligible for two more playing years once his redshirt season (Season 88) is over.
The 19-year-old Pre expressed gratitude to FEU, the Tamaraws basketball management, his coaches and teammates as he embarks on a new journey.
He ended his post by saying that "once a Tamaraw, will always be a Tamaraw."
"Now, allow me to express my deepest respect and gratitude to FEU. Thank you for the life-changing, wonderful experiences and opportunities you've given me and my family. I owe FEU so much, and I will always treasure the good deeds, memories, lessons, heartbreaks and laughter we've shared. I will be forever grateful as a 'TAMARAW' and to have experienced the colorful life that FEU and its community bring," said Pre.