'Once a Tamaraw, always a Tamaraw': Veejay Pre announces departure from FEU

Metro Manila, Philippines - Veejay Pre is leaving Far Eastern University (FEU), ending weeks of speculation on to his future with the Tamaraws.

The UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year made the emotional announcement in the wee hours of Wednesday on his social media accounts.

“I believe that leaving and saying ‘goodbye’ is never easy and accepting things is the most painful part,” he wrote.

“As an athlete, growth and improvement matters deeply. But there comes a time in our lives when challenges arise, pushing us to make difficult decisions," he added.

“My family and I have come to a decision, and I’ve chosen to heed their wisdom and concerns. This made me realize how much they only want the best for me and I can’t deny that taking this big step forward has been the hardest decision ever,” he continued.

Pre turned heads in his first year in the seniors rank, averaging a team-high 13.3 points on 40% shooting along with seven rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 14 games. The Tamaraws missed the Final Four in Season 87 after finishing at sixth place with a 5-9 win-loss record.

Pre then expressed his gratitude to the FEU basketball team including his teammates, many of whom he played with since their Baby Tamaraws days.

“To the FEU Management, especially, Boss Anton, Sir Mark and to my Coaches, Coach Sean, Coach Johny, Coach Vic, Coach Marc, Coach Muriel, Coach Denok, and Coach Allan; thank you for believing in me since day one. You kept me in shape and molded me into a better and more disciplined player,” he said.

“To my teammates, my kuya’s and my brothers from High school to College; Janrey, Jedric, Kirby, and Dwyne, I appreciate your big support for me and making these five years one of the most meaningful memories in my life. I have found family and friends in you. You all have a special place in my heart,” he said.

“Once a Tamaraw, Always a “Tamaraw,” he stressed.

If Pre decides to play for another UAAP school, he will only have two years of eligibility left due to the new transfer rule, which requires a student-athlete to serve one-year residency and lose two playing years.