By MARK REY MONTEJO
Versatile guard Art Roque is set for a new journey as he officially bade farewell to University of Perpetual Help Dalta basketball team which is now deep in preparation for the coming NCAA season.
He announced this on his Facebook page last weekend, saying he “would not be a part of the Perpetual Altas Basketball Team” as he would like to sail to a new direction carrying valuable lessons he learned from being an Altas player.
The Altas is now being handled by former PBA star Olsen Racela.
Nevertheless, Roque, 22, expressed his outmost gratitude to the team as he moves into a new journey.
“To my coaches, perpetual management, and bosses, I am filled with gratitude for each and every one of you who has been by my side, for the lessons, guidance, support, for believing in me, and for pushing me to be the best version of myself. Your belief in me has been my greatest motivation,” he added.
Roque joined forces with skipper Jielo Razon and Cyrus Nitura in leading the Altas’ resurgence in the second round last season that enabled to finish with a respectable 10-8 mark.
He averaged 12.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.06 assists, and 1.44 steals per contest under the tutelage of former head coach Myk Saguiguit.
A member of Season 99 Mythical Five, Roque also thanked his teammates for their special friendship throughout the years.
“To my teammates, words cannot express my appreciation for all the memories, support, and friendships we’ve made on and off the court,” Roque continued.
“You have been more than teammates; You have been my brothers. Though I may be moving on to a new journey, the memories we’ve created will always hold a special place in my heart,” he added.
“Thank you everyone — Coaches, Teammates, Perpetual Management, Perpetual Community, and Bosses, I will forever cherish all the lessons I learned, memories, family and friendships I have made along the way,” he concluded.
There’s no further detail about Roque’s next destination or plans to transfer for another school.
