Former Batang Gilas standout Bismarck Lina became the eighth player to leave the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers camp.
The 6’5” Lina originally committed to the Growling Tigers last February, but changed his mind and decided to accept an earlier invitation to suit up for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons yesterday.
Fighting Maroons coach Bo Perasol confirmed this following talks with Lina, members of his family, and UP team manager Atty. Agaton Uvero.
Lina, who joined former teammate CJ Cansino in the Maroons’ roster, will undergo a yearlong residency before suiting up in Season 84 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
“Bismarck is going to be part of the Season 84 team. A young man with a great fighting attitude and potential,” said Perasol.
Lina, who was part of the All-UAAP Season 81 Team, averaged 16.6 points on 54.7 percent shooting and 10.9 rebounds per game.
Since controversy began with the Growling Tigers last August, eight players have left the team.
It began when CJ Cansino moved over to the UP camp.
After that, Rhenz Abando, Ira Battaler and Brent Paraiso jumped over to Letran. Then, Mark Nonoy and Deo Cuajao went to La Salle, while Jun Asuncion joined the Mapua Cardinals.
Perasol said they have been inviting Lina to join them since last year.
Lina’s mind changed when controversy hounded the UST training camp in Sorsogon, a violation of health protocols and lockdowns imposed during the pandemic.
Four officials have also left after the university’s Institute of Physical Education and Athletics’ head Jannel Novino Abogado, O.P., resigned and was immediately replaced by Fr. Ermito de Sagon.
When coach Aldin Ayo gave up his post, assistant coaches McJour Luib and Jinino Manansala followed suit.