By Andrei M. Barrantes

With one more year in eligibility, Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraw Xyrus Torres has decided to forgo his final playing year in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and move on to the next chapter in his athletic career.

In an Instagram post, Torres expressed his gratitude for FEU as well as all the opportunities of growth he had.

“As I write this, I am filled with a mixture of gratitude, nostalgia, and a touch of sadness. 9 years as a university athlete here at FEU has been an incredible journey, that has shaped me both as an athlete and as an individual,” he said.

Torres finished his season 86 campaign averaging 9.2 points and 3.5 rebounds. 

He saw his efficiency dip shooting 24.4% from the field and 22.3 from the three-point line.

The veteran Tamaraw relished on the countless experiences he had while representing the green-and-gold.

“In a span of 9 years, I was able to visit 6 different countries representing not only the school, but also our country and I owe this all to FEU,” he added.

In his nine-year tenure with FEU, the Morayta gunner was part of the season 79 FEU Diliman championship team, the 2019 Batang Gilas Pilipinas FIBA under-18 Asian Championship and two final four appearances in UAAP seasons 82 and 84.

While he made no announcements on whether or not he will declare for the upcoming 2024 PBA Draft, it seems that Torres already committed to a team as he played for TNT Triple Giga as the reserve in the Jumpshot 3x3 International Tournament last January 6 and 7 at the Bukit Panjang Plaza, Singapore.

The Pampanga-based cager saved his most gracious expression of gratitude to all his coaches during his tenure, crediting them for his growth on-and-off the court.

“I also give my love and respect to the coaches who were responsible for who I am now. To my coaches during my Junior and Senior years, thank you for your guidance, support, and mentorship. Your commitment to developing both my skills as a player and my character as an individual has had a profound impact on my life. Moreover, your mentorship has extended beyond the basketball court. You have guided me in making sound decisions and setting goals. Thank you, thank you, thank you, dear coaches,” he concluded.

With Torres’ departure, only Patrick Sleat, Jorick Bautista, Cholo Añonuevo, and Royce Alforque remain from the last FEU squad to reach the final four.

(Photo by Ralph Mari Castro/FEU Advocate)