The UP Fighting Maroons have parted ways with UAAP champion Mark Belmonte as he seeks new opportunities in the NCAA.
Mark Belmonte has left the UP Fighting Maroons in favor of new opportunities in the NCAA, the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development confirmed on Wednesday afternoon.
Belmonte, a 6-foot-5 big, was instrumental in the Maroons’ run to the championship in UAAP Season 87 and played three years with State U. Throughout his tenure, Belmonte started 12 times for UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde.
With his latest move, Belmonte drew the well wishes of UP OASD Director Bo Perasol.
"Mark will always have his place as a champion in Diliman. Mula Seasons 86 hanggang 88, we are thankful to him for playing his part in our continued success," said Perasol.
"We wish him the best at panigurado, he will keep playing his part for his next team."
Belmonte’s departure comes ahead of UAAP Season 89, where transferee Veejay Pre is expected to become eligible to play for the UP Fighting Maroons.
His last year with UP came up with norms of 3.7 points and 2.4 rebounds where he helped UP finish second behind eventual champions DLSU Green Archers in their three-game series.
Belmonte’s eventual destination is yet to be determined.
He joins fellow champion Aldous Torculas among UP players who switched allegiances to NCAA schools in recent years.
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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.