Abate bids Red Warriors, UAAP goodbye

University of the East (UE) skipper John Abate announced that his University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) journey has come to an end following a nose injury that sidelined him for the remainder of Season 88.

In a heartfelt social media post, the 6-foot-1 guard reflected on the lessons he gained while emphasizing his gratitude to his coaches and teammates who made his stay at UE truly memorable.

A warrior is taught to persevere, to fight even when the odds are against him, and to honor the place he calls home,” Abate wrote.

“My journey with UE may have been short but has left a mark on me that I’ll carry for life… Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything.”

Before moving to the country in 2023, Abate played for Division II Spring Hill College in the United States. He seriously considered playing for De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas before joining UE, which was then under Jack Santiago.

In his final season under Chris Gavina, Abate averaged 16.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.9 steals in 10 games. But his campaign was cut short when he collided with teammate Precious Momowei in a rebound play against Ateneo de Manila University last Saturday.

Team doctors later revealed that he suffered a fractured nose and will miss the rest of the season as the Red Warriors are headed for an early vacation without a single victory.

Abate is set to take his talent to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League before joining the Philippine Basketball Association Draft in 2027.

“As my collegiate journey comes to an early end due to injury, I just want to remind you not to take any of it for granted… When the games don’t go your way, remember that you are so much more than basketball players,” Abate wrote.

“This sport is what we do, but it’s not all that we are.”