Jacob Cortez has parted ways with San Beda University.
The San Beda guard made the announcement on Thursday morning.
"With great difficulty, I have decided that my time as a Red Lion is closing, and would like to officially announce that I will not be playing for San Beda University in their upcoming season," he wrote.
The third year player also announced his intention to play in the UAAP as he previously admitted getting offers from other schools such as De La Salle University.
"Challenging, improving, and growing is always my goal, and so I have decided that to achieve this, I need to get out of my comfort zone. With that, I plan to compete in the UAAP," he said.
Cortez, though, did not say what school will he play next.
He then thanked San Beda for "THE BEST time" he had.
"From playing as a rookie fresh out of high school in an isolating yet invigorating bubble season to helping bring back the crown where it belongs after many have counted San Beda out," he wrote.
"Still, the most unforgettable part of the past couple of years has been all of you. Along the journey, I’ve truly met people who I can call Family now."
The second generation player also thanked those who supported him in his journey.
"Thank you Boss MVP, Boss Jude, Coach Yuri, and the other brilliant coaches for taking a chance on me and trusting me from the beginning. Thank you to my teammates, now brothers, for having my back no matter what, the memories I will cherish until I die, the times you all pushed me (on and off the court), and all the lessons I learned along the way. Last but not least, a huge thank you to the Red Army who believed in all of us this season, without your support none of this would have been possible. All of you have made a big impact on my life and I wouldn’t be who I am today without the help from each one of you."
Cortez was part of the Red Lions squad which won the NCAA Season 99 men's basketball tournament. He started playing in the collegiate ranks in NCAA Season 97.
In the three seasons he played with the red-and-white squad, the Mendiola-based squad have been consistently in the Final Four.
In Season 99, Cortez posted averages of 15.39 points, 3.56 rebounds, 3.44 assists, and 1.17 steals.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
