Ateneo de Manila University lost one of its rising stars following the departure of Kristian Porter ahead of Season 88 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball tournament.

Porter admitted that leaving the Blue Eagles wasn’t an easy decision, but he has to move forward to further harness and develop his personal growth.

The 19-year-old Porter has been blue-blooded right from the start after studying at the Jesuit-run Scared School-Ateneo de Cebu from elementary before transferring to Ateneo in Grade 9. Also, his older brother, Kris, was part of the Blue Eagles team that won two UAAP titles.

“I spent my elementary years at Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu before moving to Ateneo de Manila for high school and college. Ateneo has always been home to me,” Porter said in a statement.

“But had to make this choice — even if I don’t have concrete plans yet on where I’ll go next. I believe it’s a necessary step for my personal growth.”

A reliable DAILY TRIBUNE source said one of the reasons why Porter walked away was because of his grades.

“Unfortunately, he didn’t make the cut-off,” the Ateneo insider said, adding that they have yet to know Porter’s landing spot.

Together with rising star Jared Bahay, the 6-foot-5 Porter is part of the Ateneo’s building blocks for the future as the Blue Eagles aim to bounce back from a lackluster performance.

He averaged 6.57 points and 6.86 rebounds in 14 games in Season 87 for the Blue Eagles, who finished dead last in the eight-team tournament with a 4-10 win-loss record.

It was also the first time the Blue Eagles missed the Final Four since 2013.

While he hasn’t entertained any schools so far, Porter said he left Ateneo on good terms and is grateful for his time in Ateneo.

“I’m really thankful for everything. To Boss MVP (Manny Pangilinan), my coaches, teammates, professors and managers — thank you for the opportunities and lessons,” Porter said.

“Even though I never met my scholarship sponsor, I’m forever grateful to him. I’ll carry everything I’ve learned with me as I take this next step.”