IT was a one-and-done season after all for Janti Miller in San Beda, as the Fil-Am wing bid goodbye to the Red Lions on Saturday.
"Unfortunately, with recent understanding of the timing of Beda joining the UAAP, I have decided to transfer," he wrote on his Instagram post.
Right after helping the Mendiola-based squad to its 23rd NCAA title last December, Miller said he was running it back with San Beda, but also added that the reason was because all of the Red Lions were bound for the UAAP.
READ: Janti Miller bound for UAAP? But still with San Beda?
That was very much in line with rumblings at that time of the university's transfer. Until now, however, neither the UAAP nor the NCAA have yet to comment on the supposed development, with sources saying that San Beda's total number of sports programs remains an obstacle, just like it had been when it visited the move several times in the last decade or so.
With that, the Red Lions are - as of now, at least - staying put in the Grand Ol' League. The same can't be said for Miller, though.
"I wouldn't want to do it with anyone else, but I refuse to play in the NCAA league," he said, reiterating his desire to stay in red-and-white, but at the same time, also play in the UAAP.
As per several sources, defending champion La Salle is the frontrunner for his talents.
Also in his farewell message, Miller expressed gratitude to San Beda for taking a chance on him and embracing him as one of their own.
"I was just a young kid traveling across the world to play basketball in a new environment/culture. You guys took a chance on me and embraced me as one of your own," he said.
"I love my teammates and my coaches and I'm glad I was able to bring you guys and the community a championship and leave a winner. I wanna thank everyone that has been supportive and professional in the process."
Animo, Janti
For their part, the Red Lions are also thankful to have had the 21 year old, even if it was just for one season.
"Thank you and we wish him all the best," coach Yuri Escueta told SPIN.ph when asked for comment.
Teammates such as Yukien Andrada, Nygel Gonzales, and Joe Celzo also left comments on Miller's post to salute his contributions to the reigning kings of the NCAA.
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