Reigning UAAP MVP Figueroa changes heart, leaves ADU for NU

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

After initially committing to his mother school in Adamson University for college, reigning UAAP High School Boys’ Basketball MVP Jake Figueora changed his mind and chose to join the National University Bulldogs instead.

It was six months ago when the Adamson Soaring Falcons hopefuls were ecstatic about the news that their HS boys’ MVP will be staying with the school to usher in a new era.

However, the six-foot-three all-around superstar surprisingly withdrew and announced his departure from the team.

“Sa tingin ko po, makakatulong ako sa team, pero hindi ko po ito ginawa para lang sa sarili ko kung hindi para sa pamilya ko,” said Figueroa.

The 19-year-old superstar will be leaving the high school division as one of the best players and averaged 13.19 points, 14.19 rebounds, 3.13 assists, 1.56 steals, and 1.56 blocks per game with Adamson.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa Adamson kasi kung wala sila hindi ako mapupunta dito. Nagpapasalamat ako kay Coach Mik, sa staff, at kayla Fr. Aldrin. Sila po ‘yung nag-guide sa akin,” added Figueroa.

The former Adamson stalwart will be forming an exciting crew together with John Lloyd Clemente, Jolo Manansala, and Jiam Quiambao.