High flying scorer Francis Lopez heads over to the Land of the Rising Sun.
With a UAAP title under his belt, UP’s Francis Lopez has decided to spread his wings to the pros, signing with Japan B. League side Fighting Eagles Nagoya.
Lopez, who had three years of eligibility left in UP, heads to the B1 side to join the likes of his teammates Carl Tamayo, and JD Cagulangan among former UP players who have taken their talents overseas.
The 6-foot-6 forward played a pivotal role in UP’s championship run in UAAP Season 87.
“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.
Meanwhile, the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director expressed their support for his decision.
“’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,” said UP OASD Director Bo Perasol.
In his final year with the Maroons, Lopez normed 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks.
UP will thus builds around the remaining holdovers like Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat at the helm.
Meanwhile, Lopez joins a Fighting Eagles Nagoya side who are currently in 13th place in the standings with a 28-30 standing.