MANILA, Philippines—There’s no denying it now, Veejay Pre is more than happy to be with University of the Philippines.

Just a few weeks after leaving Far Eastern University and joining the Fighting Maroons, Pre has already found his footing with his new cohorts in Diliman.

READ: UAAP: Veejay Pre commits to UP after FEU departure

“I’m so happy now because I’ve already adjusted and I look forward in helping the team and improve,” said a beaming Pre during UP’s contract signing with Puma on Saturday at SM North Edsa.

“I’m just being patient right now. During my residency this year, I’ll improve on working on my lapses so when next year comes, I’ll be more than ready to play again in the UAAP.”

Last month, Pre, the reigning UAAP Rookie of the Year, departed the Tamaraws’ camp in what he considers the “hardest decision” he ever made.

A few days after that, UP, which had already made clear before Pre’s departure from Morayta that it wasn’t after the young forward, struck a deal almost immediately.

READ: UAAP: Veejay Pre leaves FEU, says family ‘only wants best for me’

Pre has to serve a residency year before he can officially take the floor for the Fighting Maroons but his addition will certainly beef up UP’s title as contenders for Season 89.

Pre, much like he did before, emphasized that his move to UP was made due to his pursuit of growth.

“UP’s very competitive and I saw that they can help me and my growth,” said Pre.

Pre averaged 13.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in his rookie year.