By NIKOLE JAVIER
Mason Amos finally addressed the issues with regards to his shock move from Ateneo to its rival school La Salle.
Four days after announcing his departure from Ateneo on a one-and-done stint, the 19-year-old big man spoke in detail about his decision despite being completely away from home due to his ongoing Gilas Pilipinas stint in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Amos and Gilas were already in Latvia when he broke the news through his personal social media on Monday, but did not spare any detail about how things went down between him and anyone from the Katipunan side.
The youngest Gilas reinforcement apologized to the Ateneo community, his teammates and the coaching staff for failing to inform them about his final decision on Friday, July 5.
“It’s been a tough week with a decision I made due to my reasons. However, my actions were unacceptable and not called for. Although I did mention the offer to the management, they weren’t informed about my final decision as well as my teammates [because] I felt that it was a personal decision for me and my family,” Amos said on X.
“However, I will apologize for not being considerate. To my teammates, coaches, the community and the alumni, I am sorry for my actions and I will own up to a mistake that could’ve been handled better. I don’t expect forgiveness but I just hope for understanding. I do love Ateneo and I wish [everyone] all the best,” he added.
Amos is being groomed to become an important piece of the rebuilding Blue Eagles lineup following an exodus of talents in his senior teammates Kai Ballungay, Jared Brown, Jason Credo and Geo Chiu, who have all pursued the pro.
Amos has been criticized for moving to La Salle of all places to be in the UAAP.
During an Instagram live by Kevin Quiambao of the Green Archers, who is also with the national team unfolding history in Europe, the reigning UAAP MVP was repeatedly asked to comment about the development but refused to do so.
Former Ateneo players alike have either chimed in or stayed neutral about his situation.
