With Kobe Paras set to leave UP, Coach Bo gives blessing: ‘Too talented to be kept waiting’

University of the Philippines head coach Bo Perasol on Tuesday said he supported Kobe Paras and his pursuit of other opportunities, following the player's joining of the stable of East West Private, a US-based company that handles players like Kai Sotto.

Perasol, in a statement, said he and Kobe discussed the latter's opportunities amid the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

"His commitment in helping out our program has gone beyond our initial agreement of him playing for us for 1 or 2 seasons depending on what will come his way after each season. He was unwavering in his commitment to play for another season last year," Perasol said.

The UP head coach said Paras was "still committed for another season, if we play it this year."

"However, we are both unsure and not so hopeful that college basketball will resume this year. It is in this backdrop that we agreed that he has to pursue his other opportunities," said the UP head coach.

"Kobe is too talented to be kept waiting for things to come. I believe it is his obligation to pursue these and showcase his God given talent," he added.

Perasol also said they are blessed that Paras was part of UP basketball's journey.

Paras suited up for UP in 2019, where the Fighting Maroons had its second straight Final Four stint in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines. Paras, the son of Philippine basketball great Benjie, made it to the season's Mythical Five with 17.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

On Tuesday, East West Private welcomed Paras to its fold, joining other US-based Filipinos such as Sotto, Cholo Añonuevo, and Sage Tolentino. —Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA News