Francis Lopez leaves UP, set to join Japan B.League team

Metro Manila, Philippines - It's the end of the Diliman road for Francis Lopez as he bids farewell to the University of the Philippines (UP).

The 6-foot-6 athletic forward is set to forego his three remaining seasons in the UAAP and play for the Fighting Eagles Nagoya in the Japan B.League, according to a Facebook post of the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development.

“Thank you to the UP Fighting Maroons and the UP Community for the wonderful two years. I will never forget it. UP Fight forever,” Lopez said.

The former Rookie of the Year averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks in UAAP Season 87.

Lopez is the latest UP cager to play overseas as former Fighting Maroons JD Cagulangan, Carl Tamayo, Juan and Javi Gomez de Liaño are all seeing action in the Korean Basketball League.

With the exit of Lopez, UP will rely on Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat as they defend the crown in Season 88.