UE's John Abate saw his final playing year with the Red Warriors cut short after an injury late in the second round of UAAP Season 88.
The UE Red Warriors’ bid in UAAP Season 88 suffered another snag as veteran guard John Abate announced that sustained an undisclosed season-ending injury prior to their game against the UP Fighting Maroons over the weekend.
Abate took to social media on Sunday evening to announce that the injury will sideline him until the season’s end. The Red Warriors have three games left, but are already out of Final Four contention with a 0-11 record.
In a lengthy post, Abate prefaced the impact of his journey with UE in his basketball career.
“A warrior is taught to persevere, to fight even when the odds are against him, and to honor the place he calls home. My journey with UE may have been short, but has left a mark on me that I’ll carry for life,” wrote Abate.
“I hope that through my time here, you’ve seen not just the player, but the person I’ve matured into, one built on pride, grit, and love for this family and the game. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for EVERYTHING.”
He further reflected on being UE’s captain in Season 88, where, despite their struggles, found flashes of brilliance in their campaign.
“Having that captain’s title was never about being above anyone, but about standing beside my brothers, pushing each other, and growing together. The memories, the long practices, the wins and tough losses, and the moments of pure joy are the things I’ll hold onto forever,” he said.
‘God’s timing’
As UE continued its skid on Saturday, with the loss against UP handing the Red Warriors their 17th straight defeat dating back to last season, Abate chose to focus on the process and to trust in the timing of everything.
He also ended his message with a message of thanks to the UE community.
“When the games don’t go your way, remember that you are so much more than basketball players," he said.
"This sport is what we do, but it’s not all that we are. One bad game or one rough season doesn’t define you. Keep your heart in it, keep learning, and trust in God that your path will take you where you’re meant to be on Gods timing not yours."
UE’s season has been marked by struggles, including some close shaves against contending teams.
[RELATED: UAAP: Strong start propels UP past also-ran UE for fourth straight win]
They also had to buck some game suspensions both to Wello Lingolingo and head coach Chris Gavina.
UE returns to action against season hosts UST on Wednesday, November 12, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.