FORMER GROWLING Tiger Renzo Subido returned to España — this time, as an alumnus watching the next wave of Tigers carry the black and gold.
The former UST guard was back at the Quadricentennial Pavilion on Saturday, Oct. 4, as a Cignal TV analyst during the Tigers’ game against the UE Red Warriors.
“First of all, I feel great to be back, it brings a lot of memories,” Subido told The Flame.
“I’m very happy to see how our boys are competing…. It’s a new generation of players representing the UST community, and they’re making everyone proud,” he added.
Subido, best remembered for his clutch three-pointer against UP during the UAAP Season 82 Final Four duel that sent UST to the finals, shared advice for the current Tigers who are off to a strong start in Season 88.
“Number one, don’t settle. It’s just the start of the season. They have to be consistent all throughout if they want to reach the top which is the championship and win it,” he said.
“They have to give everything back to UST, especially with the support being given to them. At the same time, they also have to enjoy the competition.”
The former Tiger also mentioned a few players who stood out for him. He believes that Collins Akowe’s presence in the paint has been a key factor in UST’s strong start this season.
“Of course, number one is Collins Akowe. His presence inside the court has been a huge help for the Growling Tigers, and he’s one of the main reasons we started the season really well,” he said.
“Then there’s the ‘Point God’ Forthsky Padrigao, Kyle Paranada, and our King Tiger, Nic Cabañero. Whatever these players show in the games will determine the direction of the team.”
The Tigers endured a 76-69 loss to NU last Oct. 1, their first defeat of the season. As of writing, UST ranks third in the men’s basketball tournament with a 3-1 win-loss record.
Subido believes that it’s more about finishing the game strong.
“They started really well against NU but weren’t able to close it out. So it’s about consistency,” he said.
“They also have to be patient, especially Collins. He was playing really well and was being doubled during the game, but once you lose focus and patience on the court, that’s when you lose your grip on the game.”
For Subido, UST’s success this season will depend on their ability to maintain discipline, composure and confidence from start to finish. F
