MANILA – Jacob Cortez has formally bid farewell to the San Beda University Red Lions on Thursday morning as he plans to transfer to a school based in the UAAP.
According to Cortez, he decided to leave the Red Lions camp as he wanted to be challenged, to improve, and to grow as a player wherever he would play next.
“With great difficulty, I have decided that my time as a Red Lion is closing, and I would like to officially announce that I will not be playing for San Beda University in their upcoming season,” Cortez said.
“Challenging, improving, and growing is always my goal, and so I have decided that to achieve this, I need to get out of my comfort zone. With that, I plan to compete in the UAAP,” he added.
It is believed that Cortez is planning to commit to the reigning UAAP men’s basketball champion, De La Salle University Green Archers, the alma mater of his father, former PBA guard Mike Cortez.
Jacob admitted that he had his best years with the Red Lions in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament as they battled their way up to the championship.
The younger Cortez played a key role in San Beda’s campaign during the 99th NCAA season, including in the championship round, where they defeated the Mapua University Cardinals in three games.
“I have had THE BEST time at San Beda. From playing as a rookie fresh out of high school in an isolating yet invigorating bubble season to helping bring back the crown where it belongs after many have counted San Beda out,” Jacob said.
“Still, the most unforgettable part of the past couple of years has been all of you. Along the journey, I’ve truly met people who I can call Family now. Saying thank you is not enough to show my gratitude toward them but I will say it, anyway. Thank you all!” he added.
The Red Lions will now have to rely on their new recruits, Penny Estacio and Ilonggo John Bryan Sajonia, to take over Jacob’s spot in their title retention bid in the NCAA Centennial season./PN
