Mason Amos’ blockbuster move from Ateneo to rival DLSU immediately drew some ire, especially from the Blue Eagles community.
Talk about a major offseason move.
Mason Amos made headlines on July 1, Monday after his decision to leave the Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles to join none other than arch-rival De La Salle University Green Archers.
In a lengthy post, Amos penned a heartfelt farewell message to his teammates, coaches, and everyone involved in the Blue Eagles community.
"As I sit here and write this I think about my life and I am forever thankful for what Ateneo has done for me,” Amos wrote.
"To the coaches and everyone involved - I am thankful for everything you have taught me. I am thankful for the opportunity, the teachings, the adversity and the knowledge you have instilled in me. I am so blessed to be able to be coached by you guys. I love you all and I am thankful for everything,” said Amos.
In his lone season with Ateneo, the sweet-shooting big man averaged 8.7 points and 3.3 rebounds and helped the Blue Eagles reach the Season 86 Final Four before falling to the UP Fighting Maroons in the semifinals.
Amos' transfer from Katipunan to Taft sent shockwaves to the collegiate basketball scene, drawing mixed reactions particularly from a former Ateneo player and his ex teammates.
Two-time UAAP champion SJ Belangel took his sentiments to X, formerly Twitter, on Amos’ move to La Salle.
"Wala naba Pride mga players ngayon? 🤡" the Daegu KOGAS import in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) wrote.
Belangel also voiced out his frustrations on Instagram, posting a controversial reaction upon hearing the sudden turn of developments.
[Instagram Story | @sjbelangel]
SJ followed that up with a strong statement, reiterating Ateneo’s long-standing mantra.
[Instagram Story | @sjbelangel]
Sean Quitevis, Amos’ former teammate and the Blue Eagles captain, expressed his take with some few, impactful words.
[Instagram Story | @seanquitevis24]
“We few, we happy few,” Quitevis posted.
After weighing his options, Quitevis has decided to play his final year with the Blue Eagles in the upcoming Season 87.
Kai Ballungay also gave his take on Amos’ move, quoting American footballer Ray Lewis with an interesting quote.
"Adversity defines true character,” Ballungay posted.
Meanwhile, reigning champion and Finals MVP Kevin Quiambao shares his excitement in teaming up with Amos as the two are also part of Gilas Pilipinas, who are set to begin their FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign against Latvia and Georgia.
“ANIMO,” KQ shared.
Amos is the latest player to depart the Blue Eagles’ nest after the likes of Ballungay, Jared Brown, and Geo Chiu also bid the school goodbye.
Mason is set to join a loaded DLSU who also welcomed former NU Bulldog Kean Baclaan and former San Beda Red Lion Jacob Cortez, son of DLSU alumnus Mike Cortez. Jacob has just come out fresh from a championship run with San Beda last year.
Amos is eligible to play for the Green Archers in Season 88 in 2025.