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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Francis Lopez bids farewell to UP, joins Nagoya in B.League

Francis Lopez bids farewell to UP, joins Nagoya in B.League

Published Apr 28, 2025 09:32 am

At A Glance

  • High-flying forward Francis Lopez made a big leap in his young, promising career as he decided to take his talent to the Japan B.League, his school University of the Philippines announced Monday, April 28.

High-flying forward Francis Lopez made a big leap in his young, promising career as he decided to take his talent to the Japan B.League, his school University of the Philippines announced Monday, April 28.

UPMBTFrancisLopez2.jpg
High-flying forward Francis Lopez brings his talent to Japan. (OASD)

Lopez, 21, opted to forego his three remaining years with the Fighting Maroons and instead fly to Japan and become a pro as an Asian import for the Nagoya Fighting Eagles.

The Eagles currently hold a 28-30 win-loss record at 13th place in the B.League.

Bo Perasol, who serves as director of the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development, expressed his support for Lopez's decision.

“’Di tayo dapat malungkot dahil nakaka-proud itong gagawin ni Francis,” said Perasol. “He’s the latest proof that what we do works and our student-athletes give pride to the UP community.”

With his stint abroad, Lopez followed the path of former UP teammates Carl Tamayo, JD Cagulangan, and Javi and Juan Gomez de Liano, who are now making waves in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).

Lopez is also expected to meet other Filipino imports who are vying in their respective clubs in Japan, including Kiefer and Thirdy Ravena, Dwight Ramos, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Matthew Wright, Kai Sotto, and AJ Edu, to name a few.

Before his departure, Lopez averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks in the last UAAP season and also played a pivotal role in their championship win over the De La Salle Green Archers in the men’s finals.

“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.

The Fighting Maroons are now expected to bank on Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat in their Season 88 bid.

Related Tags

Japan B. League Francis Lopez UP Fighting Maroons
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