UAAP: Gab Gomez bids Ateneo goodbye after three seasons

After three seasons, guard Gab Gomez’s time with Ateneo de Manila University has come to an end.

Gomez, who suited up for the Blue Eagles from UAAP Season 84 to Season 86, announced his departure on Monday as he became the latest player to leave Ateneo after Kai Ballungay and Jared Brown, who have both turned professional. 

“As I’m writing this message, I find myself with bittersweet emotions. It hurts to let you know that my journey as a Blue Eagle ends and I will be moving forward with my basketball journey,” Gomez said in a heartfelt post on Instagram. 

“Though my time in Ateneo did not end like how I expected, I still see it as a blessing that I was part of something special. It was still a dream come true.”

Gomez was part of the Ateneo team that reclaimed the UAAP title in Season 85, where they outlasted rival University of the Philippines in Game 3 of the Finals. He averaged 3.42 points, 0.5 rebounds, and 2.08 assists in the elimination round. 

But the Blue Eagles were unable to retain the crown after being ousted by the same squad in the Final Four in Season 86, where Gomez saw limited minutes and averaged 2.5 markers, 0.4 boards, and 1.0 dimes in seven minutes of action. 

Gomez, though, said he will always support the Blue Eagles, who will be eyeing to redeem themselves come Season 87 with head coach Tab Baldwin still at the helm. 

“I won’t stop supporting the school, the program, and my brothers. I’m confident that the team will continue to have success and I’m already excited to cheer for them.”

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News