Lopez Bids Farewell to UP, Joins Fighting Eagles Nagoya in Japan
Photo Source: Filoil Preseason
Francis Lopez, one of the brightest stars of Philippine college basketball, is officially taking his talents abroad. The high-flying 6-foot-6 forward is leaving the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons to join the Fighting Eagles Nagoya in Japan’s B.League, foregoing his remaining three seasons in the UAAP.
The move was confirmed Monday by both UP and Lopez himself, capping a whirlwind two weeks after Lopez received and eventually accepted a three-year guaranteed offer from the Japanese club. According to sources, Lopez learned just this past Saturday that the contract was fully guaranteed — a “change your life” deal that left little doubt about the decision.
“Yet another Fighting Maroon is set to become an Asian import in an international league,” the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (OASD) said in a statement. “’Di tayo dapat malungkot dahil nakaka-proud itong gagawin ni Francis. He’s the latest proof that what we do works and our student-athletes give pride to the UP community,” said UP OASD Director Bo Perasol.
Perasol also acknowledged the massive impact Lopez leaves behind in an exclusive interview: “There’s no question about how huge of a hole Francis has left in the team with his departure. I don’t think anybody in the near future would be able to fill that one. Saying that, we also celebrate with Francis in seizing this opportunity for him and his family. The UP community is grateful for his significant role in our last championship.”
When asked for comment on what he told Lopez upon learning of the offer he received, UP patron and passionate supporter Jonvic Remulla said these words: “For all this time we taught you to be selfless for the team. This is the time to be selfish and look after yourself. You have my blessings. Go ahead and sign the contract.”
Lopez joins a growing list of former Fighting Maroons to make the jump abroad, following Carl Tamayo, JD Cagulangan, James Spencer, Kobe Paras, and Javi and Juan Gomez de Liaño.
In an emotional farewell during team practice, Lopez broke the news to his teammates, saying through tears, “Guys, this is so difficult. I got an offer in Japan…” The players immediately circled around him for a group hug, showing their full support, according to a source. Fifteen minutes later, Lopez laced up his sneakers and finished practice — embodying the same work ethic that made him a cornerstone of UP’s success.
Lopez will continue to practice with the UP team until August to stay in shape ahead of his move to Japan.
Lopez’s UAAP Legacy: Two Finals, One Title, Countless Memories
Lopez’s time with the Fighting Maroons was nothing short of electric. Despite heavy scrutiny when he first transferred from Ateneo, he silenced critics with his performances. Over two seasons, he helped UP reach two UAAP Finals, winning the Season 87 title — the school’s second in the last four tournaments.
His final UAAP act? A clutch dagger three-pointer in Game 3 of the Finals against De La Salle, helping UP clinch the championship and securing his legacy in maroon. The shot capped off a season where Lopez averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game.
“Like I said, I don’t really care what they say. I’m not here to please anyone from the outside. As a matter of fact, fuck them. I don’t give a shit, to be honest. What I care about is the team, what’s inside of us. I’m really happy we got this win, you know. I can finally say that I’m officially a champion,” he said after the game.
Lopez was also named UAAP Rookie of the Year in his first season, validating the hype that surrounded his move.
Coming off his best performance in a UP uniform just last Saturday — a 22-point, 10-rebound, 2-assist, 2-steal, 2-block masterpiece in a Pinoyliga win over CSB — Lopez displayed an expanded skill set honed during a one-month training stint in Los Angeles. Improved footwork, a smoother fadeaway jumper, better patience in decision-making, and a knack for drawing fouls all stood out, setting the stage for his professional leap.
A New Chapter in Nagoya
Lopez now joins a Fighting Eagles Nagoya squad looking to build on their recent progress in Japan’s top division. After winning the B2 League title in 2022 and earning promotion, the Eagles have been solid in B1 play, finishing 10th overall in the 2023–24 season with a 33-27 record. As of late April 2025, they sit 13th overall with a 28-30 record, anchored by strong performances from American import Aaron Henry (20.4 PPG) and big man Sean O’Mara (9.7 RPG).
Nagoya remains a competitive outfit in the B.League and will benefit from Lopez’s athleticism, two-way potential, and now battle-tested clutch mentality.
What’s Next?
Lopez’s departure leaves a major hole in the UP lineup ahead of Season 88, a loss that will undoubtedly shake up the UAAP’s balance of power. Still, UP remains optimistic, rallying behind returnees like Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, Jacob Bayla, and Rey Remogat as they defend their title.
As for Lopez, the journey is just beginning. In his words: “Thank you to the UP Fighting Maroons and the UP Community for the wonderful two years. I will never forget it. UP Fight forever.”
The Fighting Eagles are getting a good one — and Filipino fans will be watching.
This is a developing story.
