UP quint loses 2 more cagers

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TWO more University of the Philippines players have opted to leave the squad.

Guard Cyril Gonzales chose to return to Mapua University in the NCAA where he began his collegiate stint, while big man Luis Pablo decided to join defending champion La Salle.

“The past few years have shown me what it’s like to be a true Fighting Maroon. UP wasn’t just a phase but a piece of my heart,” Gonzales said on his Instagram account last Saturday night. “My thoughts are filled with a deep sense of respect and thankfulness as I sit here, realizing that my chapter fighting for the Maroons is coming to a close.”

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In a limited two-season stay with the Fighting Maroons, Gonzales could only muster five points in 15 minutes per game in the 85th season in late 2022 and slipped to just three points in seven minutes in each outing in the last cage wars.

UP coach Goldwin Monteverde had nothing but gratitude for Gonzales.

“Thank you, Cyril Gonzales, for giving your best in all the fights and challenges we have faced together throughout the years. I wish you all the best,” he said. “Always know that I will be here for you, both on and off the court. God bless.”

The 6-foot-7 Pablo, who was named the NCAA juniors’ MVP last year while playing for the La Salle Green Hills, averaged 1.5 points and 1.75 rebounds in just 9:09 minutes across 16 games played.

“Gusto ko rin ipakita kung ano pa iyong mga kaya kong gawin,” Pablo, 19, said last Friday. “Nakaka-excite na mabibigyan ako ng chance na mas maipakita iyon.

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