Bismarck Lina is moving on from University of the Philippines.
The 6-foot-5 big man has committed to transfer to San Beda University on Wednesday.
For the 22-year-old product of University of Santo Tomas, he needed to go to a place where he can showcase his talents and be a better player.
“Hinanap ko kung san ako mag-grogrow as a player,” Lina told Tiebreaker Times.
“Tinignan ko yung long term at kung san maganda yung basketball program na makakatulong sa akin.”
Lina was a double-double machine for the Tiger Cubs back in UAAP Season 82.
Initially a recruit of UST, Lina decided to go to UP.
However, the former Gilas Youth player struggled to find playing time in UP.
In UAAP Season 84, he only logged 29 minutes and 44 seconds for a count of two points and 11 rebounds.
He did not receive an increase in minutes in Season 85, playing 52 minutes and seven seconds for four points and 14 rebounds.
Still, Lina has no regrets about the decision he made.
“Nag-look ako ng other opportunities na puwede kong maprove yung talents and skills ko,” he said.
“Pero sobrang grateful ko pa rin sa UP dahil hindi lang madami ang natutunan ko doon kung hindi nagkaroon ng hindi lang kaibigan kung hindi isa pang pamilya.”
Lina must sit out one year before being eligible for NCAA Season 100. He has three playing years left.
And he can’t wait to show what he got once he dons the Red Lions’ colors.
“Sobrang excited ako kasi sobrang welcome ako sa San Beda. Ever since after high school, nandiyan yung San Beda sa tabi ko. Blessing sa akin magkaroon ng ganitong opportunity.”
