With Kobe out, UP faces tougher odds

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WITH former star forward Kobe Paras opting to try to prove his worth anew in the United States, University of the Philippines coach Bo Perasol said yesterday his charges now must step up and prove their real worth.

“It’s safe to say that we will miss Kobe’s contribution to the team,” Perasol told Malaya-Business Insight. “Time for others to step up.”

Backed by Chooks-to-Go which he has represented as its brand ambassador, the 6-foot-6 Paras took a flight to Los Angeles, California before heading to Cincinnati, Ohio last April 14 to toughen up full-time under East West Private, the same firm that handles other Filipino players, including Kai Sotto.

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Perasol still has to determine the impact of the departure of the athletic Paras, who chose to leave due to the uncertainty facing the UAAP due to the pandemic.

“I can’t say for sure as we haven’t trained and practiced as a team yet,” Perasol said. “Hindi ko pa nakikita ang totality ng team ngayon.”

Former MVP Bright Akhuetie and wingman Ricci Rivero are expected to lead the way for UP in the UAAP 84th season that is still hanging in the air.

Prized playmaker Juan Gomez de Liaño is also unlikely to return to the Katipunan-based squad despite getting a special guest player license from the Games and Amusements Board after he suited up as a pro in last year’s Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 league.

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