With a heavy heart, Jacob Cortez has left the team that gave him his first chance on his way to becoming an NCAA champion—the San Beda Lions.
“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,” said Cortez on his Facebook account on Thursday.
Cortez mentioned he will transfer to the UAAP, but did not mention where.
It is highly likely, as had been talked about even before San Beda’s NCAA title romp a year ago, he had landed at reigning UAAP titlist La Salle where his father, former PBA standout Mike Cortez, was a former star back in the day.
“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,” he said. “With that, I plan to compete in the UAAP.”
Cortez said he would never forget San Beda and their supporters who backed his journey.
“I had the best time at San Beda. 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,” said Cortez.
“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.”
San Beda team manager Jude Roque also thanked Cortez for his time with the Lions.
“We wish Jacob well. He was instrumental in our Season 99 championship run, and for that we will always be thankful to him. He will always be part of the Red Lions family,” he said.