Jake Figueroa wrapped up his NU Bulldogs career with gratitude and no regrets as he looks ahead to possible international offers.
It wasn’t the ending that Jake Figueroa had in mind in his final year with National University.
The senior forward delivered 21 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block in NU’s 78–73 loss to De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 88 Final Four on Saturday, December 6, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Despite the heartbreak, Figueroa said he will always be grateful for his time with the Bulldogs.
“No regrets naman kasi binigay naman namin 100-percent namin ngayong game. Sobrang blessed ko rin na nag-NU ako. Kumbaga, tinapos ko 'yung playing years ko sa NU. Sobrang ganda ng journey ang tinakbo namin ng mga seniors ko,” he told reporters.
Open to international opportunities
Figueroa wrapped up the season averaging 13.93 points, 7.21 rebounds, 3.93 assists, 2.14 steals, and 1.0 block per game, numbers that reportedly drew interest from the Korean Basketball League (KBL), with teams monitoring him throughout the year.
Jake Figueroa in action during NU's Final Four loss to DLSU in UAAP Season 88. | Photo: UAAP
As he turns the page on his UAAP career, Figueroa said he is prepared for whatever opportunities come next, including possibly playing overseas.
“Kahit ano, okay lang naman ako. Iba pa rin 'yung sa international ka maglaro kasi ‘yon naman lahat siguro 'yung goal nila, pinapangarap ng mga athlete ngayon,” he said.
“Siyempre, ako rin, dream ko rin makalaro sa international.”
Message to younger Bulldogs
While he sorts out the next chapter of his basketball career, Figueroa shared his message to his NU teammates, who will still be with the team next season.
“Sabi ko lang sa kanila kanina, na lagi sinasabi sa amin ni coach Jeff [Napa] na kahit na llamado kami ngayon...sabi ko sa kanila na every year is a different story. I-cherish nila every year kung may matitira lang silang playing year.”
The Bulldogs will still have key pieces in Reinhard Jumamoy, Omar John, PJ Palacielo, Tebol Garcia, and Paul Francisco.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.