By NIKOLE JAVIER
Gilas big man Mason Amos is leaving Ateneo after only one season, and is reportedly set to transfer to De La Salle.
Amos, who answered to his second Gilas Pilipinas call-up and is currently in Latvia with the Nationals for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament, announced his decision on his personal social media on Monday night, July 1.
In 2023, Amos made a perfect national team debut under the then Chot Reyes-mentored squad before formally suiting up for the Blue Eagles in the UAAP later that year.
“As I sit here and write this, I think about my life and I am forever thankful for what Ateneo has done for me,” Amos said.
Fresh out of high school, the 19-year-old Amos committed to Ateneo and steered the then defending champions to a Final Four finish.
Though the season was a bit underwhelming to veteran coach Tab Baldwin’s liking, Amos was a consistent firepower in the rotation and proved his worth all season long.
“To my teammates – with a heavy heart I would like to express that you guys have been a huge part of my life. I am thankful for everything that we were able to share. I have no regrets having fought by your side. I am thankful that you guys taught me lessons and that we were able to create memories I will cherish forever. I love you guys and that’ll never change,” his post said.
“To the coaches and everyone involved – I am thankful for everything you have taught me. I am thankful for the opportunity, the teachings, the adversity and the knowledge you have instilled in me. I am so blessed to be able to be coached by you guys. I love you all and I am thankful for everything,” it added.
From one great coach to another, Amos, in a scrum interview with select members of the media on June 24 before heading to Turkey for the national team’s friendly match, said it’s been a blessing to be learning the coaching system of Baldwin and now Tim Cone.
“I look at it as a blessing. It’s not often that you get to play for two of the best coaches, if not the best in Asia in both coaches,” he said then.
Shortly after the Season 86, Amos’ senior teammates Kai Ballungay, Jared Brown, Jason Credo and recently Geo Chiu have all decided not to exhaust their collegiate playing eligibility and pursued the pro ranks, leaving the Blue Eagles with a young rotation.
With Amos’ announcement also came a report saying he will be joining the side of reigning UAAP champions Green Archers under Topex Robinson.
The Manila Bulletin reached out to Robinson for confirmation about the news and is awaiting an answer.
