Veejay Pre ‘100%’ committed to playing out UAAP career with FEU
Photo: UAAP Media Team
As the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament comes to an end for one of the league’s most successful programs, one of its brightest young stars has already made headlines for his loyalty.
FEU Tamaraws’ rookie sensation Veejay Pre, despite possibly being a prime target for other schools due to his exceptional play, has declared he is 100% committed to staying in Morayta for his entire collegiate career.
“Sobrang 100% yan kasi may goal kami nila Janrey [Pasaol], Jedrick [Daa] na from high school gusto namin mag champion sa college. Hindi namin kakalimutan yun kasi sobrang thankful kami sa FEU na dito kami naglalaro,” Pre shared in an exclusive with ALL-STAR Magazine.
In an era where college basketball players are increasingly wooed by rival programs with offers of financial incentives and other perks, Pre’s steadfastness stands out. His loyalty stems from his long-standing bond with his teammates, including Pasaol and Daa, whom he played with during their FEU-Diliman days. Together, they share an unfulfilled dream of bringing championship glory to FEU.
A Rookie Sensation
Pre’s loyalty is matched only by his talent. The 6-foot-4 wing has been one of the few bright spots in a rebuilding season for the Tamaraws, finishing among the top rookies in scoring and rebounds. He is statistically regarded as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, an accolade he attributes to his hard work during the offseason.
“Nung offseason trinabaho ko maging better. Kahit hindi ko nakuha ung goal ko na mag Final Four or maging contender, bonus yun,” he said, showing his mature perspective on individual accolades.
Exciting Reinforcements
Pre’s optimism for the Tamaraws’ future is buoyed by the return of his high school teammate, Kirby Mongcopa, next season. Mongcopa, a versatile 6-foot-4 forward, has been recovering from his right leg injury and is expected to make a significant impact in 2025.
“Si Kirby napakatalino mag laro. Hopefully next year mag laro na siya and makasama namin. Sabi niya babawi kami next season. May goal kami para kay Kuya Royce na manalo next season,” Pre explained, referring to Royce Alforque, their graduating teammate whose contributions they aim to honor with an improved campaign next year.
A Taste of the Big Time
The Tamaraws are also set to experience international exposure in the offseason, as head coach Sean Chambers plans to take the team to the United States for a two-week training camp. For Pre, who has never been to America, the trip represents an invaluable opportunity to learn from elite competition.
“Masaya kasi marami ako matututunan kasi nandoon mga top high school prospect. Pag balik aming mas marami na kami matututunan,” he said enthusiastically.
Using the Pain as Motivation
But before diving into rigorous offseason training, Pre has simpler plans. He intends to take a brief rest, though he’ll also compete in a “ligang labas” tournament in Abra to stay sharp.
Reflecting on FEU’s early exit this season, Pre is determined to use the disappointment as fuel for improvement.
“Pahinga [muna ako] kasi next week may ligang labas ako sa Abra. Gagawin ko motivation yung sakit nararamdaman namin ngayon para maging mas magaling next season,” he said.
As one of the league’s most exciting young players, Pre has the talent to be a game-changer. But his commitment to FEU, his humility, and his unshakable sense of gratitude set him apart. While rival schools may knock on his door, the stud rookie is firmly rooted in Morayta, ready to grow with his team and lead them back to contention.
For Pre, it’s more than just basketball – it’s about loyalty, camaraderie, and a shared goal to make FEU champions once again.
