Renz Subido leaves UST with a grateful heart

MANILA, Philippines—Renzo Subido was there for University of Santo Tomas’ lowest points as well in its highest but now that his collegiate career’s come to an end, he will leave his school with gratitude in his heart.

From being a role player in the 2015 team that settled for the silver medal to being a main cog, Subido had an up and down journey with the Growling Tigers and his exit was no different.

Subido was the veteran voice of the Growling Tigers in the UAAP Season 82 men’s basketball tournament in an inspiring albeit bittersweet campaign that ended in a runner-up finish after losing to three-peat champion Ateneo in the finals.

“I just want to be remembered as a person who’s hardworking, who gave everything to UST because that’s what they really deserved,” said Subido after UST’s 86-79 Game 2 loss to the Blue Eagles Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.

“I’m really grateful for this journey until the finals, even though we fell short.”

Subido played for UST from 2014 to 2016 then skipped a year to play in the PBA D-League before returning to the Growling Tigers when head coach Aldin Ayo replaced Boy Sablan.

The diminutive gunner, who is listed at a generous 5-foot-8, is one of the three Growling Tigers who will leave the team this year with Enrique Caunan and Zachy Huang.

Subido was also with UST when it lost to Far Eastern University in the 2015 finals but was more of a support player playing behind a loaded wing lineup of Kevin Ferrer, Ed Daquioag, and Louie Vigil.

Nevertheless, he came into his own man and into his own leader in Season 82.

“For me this is the best season I’ve ever had, I learned a lot from the experiences this season,” said Subido. “I’m really grateful but at the same time we fell short. It’s really painful for me. Ending as the first runner-up in my senior year.”

“I’m grateful for my teammates and to the Thomasian community. I’ll miss the crowd and the “Go USTe!” cheer would always be the most memorable for me.