Veejay Pre commits to UP, sits out season

Veejay Pre, the UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year and former Far Eastern University player, has officially committed to play for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons after a contentious departure from FEU.

Pre will sit out the upcoming season but is expected to have two seasons of eligibility with UP, where he is seen as a 'plug-and-play' replacement for departing players Francis Lopez and Aldous Torculas.

UP's recruitment of Pre was described by Bo Perasol, Office of Athletics and Sports Development Director, as respecting FEU throughout the process and only formally reaching out to Pre after he decided to leave FEU.

The decision came after much deliberation with his family who faced pressure from both sides but ultimately supported his move to UP.

UP also secured commitments from former NCAA Finals MVP James Payosing from San Beda and UE guard Rainer Maga, further strengthening their lineup for Season 89.

Key players like Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat will continue to support the team as UP aims to defend its title in Season 89.