AMATEUR star Kobe Paras has left the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons and is in the United States to look for better basketball opportunities.

The son of PBA legend Benjie Paras still had one more playing year left for UP but opted out of playing it given the uncertainty surrounding the state of amateur basketball in the country. UP men’s basketball head coach Bo Perasol also confirmed that Paras had the school’s blessing to move on to the next chapter of his career.

"In the past few weeks, Kobe and I had discussed lengthily about his various opportunities amidst this lingering pandemic situation," Perasol said in a talk with Spin.ph

"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. Our program was blessed to have been a part of his journey."

The 6-foot-6 high flyer is already with East West Private, the same company that handles the career of Kai Sotto. Paras is looking to make a triumphant return to the US after he failed to make an impact during his stints with UCLA, Creighton, and Cal State Northridge in the US NCAA.

Paras’ stint with UP may have been short but it was certainly sweet as he led the Maroons to a third-place finish in UAAP Season 83. He averaged 16.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.1 steals and snagged a spot in the Mythical Team. (JNP)