UAAP Season 86 Rookie of the Year Francis Lopez doesn’t mind the talk from naysayers.
Fighting Maroons winger Francis Lopez is tuning out the noise as UP tries to recover from last season’s heartbreak with a renewed vigor in the men’s basketball tournament of UAAP Season 87.
Since transferring out of Ateneo following his juniors career with the Blue Eaglets, Lopez has often received ire from those who disapproved of his decision of switching sides to their Katipunan neighbors.
Even a year since his transfer, Ateneo fans still made their disfavor felt as Lopez received jeers in UP’s opening game against the Blue Eagles last weekend.
But for Lopez, it doesn’t really matter. After experiencing the same as a rookie, he now says he’s learned his lesson on how to deal with them.
“The coaches talked to me about that in my first season just focus on your game and don’t worry about the crowd because what are they gonna do? They’re just gonna use their mouths,” said Lopez.
During the game last Saturday, Lopez was hardly fazed. In fact, he even looked fueled to perform even better.
In a lopsided, 16-point win by the Fighting Maroons, Lopez contributed 14 points on a perfect shooting night. He also had six rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.
With a long season ahead, the 21-year-old is zeroed in on what matters most: winning the championship for Diliman.
“I’m just really focused on whatever it takes for the team,” said Lopez.
The high-flying forward also reiterated his faith in the decision of joining the Fighting Maroons.
Though he may encounter challenges along the way, Lopez is confident that he can lean on his teammates and coaches to get over the hump.
“I told the media last season that I don’t regret going to UP – I’m still gonna stick with that forever. I’m just really glad that I’m here with these coaches and that we’re a team,” he said.
With the season just getting started, the road remains long for Lopez and the Fighting Maroons as they attempt to reach the UAAP summit anew.
Lopez and the rest of the Fighting Maroons return to action on Saturday, September 14, at 6:30 p.m. against the UE Red Warriors at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.