Jacob Cortez on Thursday announced his decision to leave San Beda University.
Despite leaving the Mendiola crew, Cortez said his journey with the squad has been 'THE BEST' and unforgettable.
As Cortez leaves the Red Lion's den, here's a look at his collegiate journey in the NCAA.
NCAA Season 97
Cortez made his debut late in NCAA Season 97.
By the end of the elimination round, the second generation player only played one game and posted seven points, two rebounds, and two assists in almost 16 minutes of play.
By the end of the season, San Beda made it to the Final Four, and Cortez played in a total of five games where he logged 5.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game.
NCAA Season 98
The following season, Cortez played limited minutes early in Season 98 under their new head coach Yuri Escueta. Despite this, he showed up when it mattered.
In San Beda's game against Jose Rizal University in November 19, 2022, Cortez had a season-high 15 points.
The Red Lions again made it to the Final Four and by season's end, Cortez had averages of 6.17 points, 2.28 rebounds, and 1.56 assists per game.
NCAA Season 99
In his third year with the Red Lions, Cortez became the veteran that he was expected to be.
San Beda finished the elimination round at the third spot with 15.39 points, 3.56 rebounds, and 3.44 assists. He was crucial in the Mendiola crew's campaign as they finished with 12 wins and six losses.
Heading into the Final Four with a twice-to-win disadvantage, Cortez dropped his career-high 28 points to drag San Beda to a rubber match against Lyceum of the Philippines University. He was then limited to seven points in the do-or-die, but the Red Lions booked a slot in the Finals.
In Game 1 of the Finals, Cortez scored 12 points in the 68-63 loss against Mapua University. As they tried to bounce back and force a decider, Cortez had 21 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
In the deciding Game 3, Cortez had eight points, eight assists, and three rebounds in San Beda's 76-66 win against Mapua.
Cortez may have parted ways with San Beda but he will always remain in the list of their champions.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
