Lopez bids UP ‘sayonara’ for Japan league

MANILA, Philippines — Another Maroon is off to the overseas league to turn professional.

Former Rookie of the Year Francis Lopez followed the footsteps of teammate JD Cagulangan after UP’s UAAP championship, taking his act to the Japan B. League as announced by the school yesterday.

“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, who will join the Fighting Eagles Nagoya in the Land of the Rising Sun.

“’Di tayo dapat malungkot dahil nakaka-proud itong gagawin ni Francis. He’s the latest proof that what we do works and our student-athletes give pride to the UP community,” added UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director Bo Perasol.

Lopez played a vital part in UP’s title run in UAAP Season 87 with averages of 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.3 blocks. His dagger trey in Game 3 sealed UP’s 66-62 win over reigning champion La Salle.

But he’s how waiving his remaining three years of UAAP eligibility.