UAAP: Jared Bahay changes plans after early commitment to Fighting Maroons, says UP

Months after Jared Bahay announced his early commitment to University of the Philippines, the high school standout is now changing his plans.

The University of the Philippines on Friday said Bahay had a 'change of heart.'

The development came after Bahay led the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu to a successful title defense in CESAFI.

"In the last two years, the UP MBT and Jared Bahay have developed a special relationship. We envisioned a common future with Jared handling the reins of a championship-caliber team. We believed in his immense talent and capacity to lead," UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol said in a statement.

"However, not all things go according to plan. Although we have remained in our commitment to Jared, outside forces have intervened for him to have a change of heart."

Perasol said they respect Bahay's decision.

"It is with a heavy heart that we respect his decision. A man should be at liberty to choose his own destiny. Godspeed and the best of luck to him," he said.

"The 'J-House' has a new home. We hope the 'J-House' will always be home, wherever that be."

UP finished as the runners-up to UAAP Season 86 men's basketball champions De La Salle University.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News