MANILA—It was a roller-coaster collegiate career for Renzo Subido at University of Santo Tomas. And on Wednesday, his stint as a Growling Tiger was capped by a bittersweet loss in the finals in the hands of Ateneo.

The graduating guard said it was not the ending he wanted in his senior year, as UST settled for runner-up after falling short in Game 2 86-79 at Mall of Asia Arena.

"I’m really grateful but at the same time, we fell short. It’s really painful for me ending up first runner-up in my senior year," said Subido, who finished his UST career with eight points and five assists.

"But just like what coach Aldin keeps on telling us, we have to be grateful for this opportunity kasi we learned a lot, especially me. It made me a better person and a better basketball player."

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Despite his team falling short, Subido said he is grateful for the journey he had with the Tigers, especially with what he went through.

Subido suffered an ACL injury in Season 78, failing to join the squad reaching the finals with Kevin Ferrer and Karim Abdul.

However, his return with the Tigers did not bear immediate fruit as he had to sit out the entire Season 80 for a sabbatical leave, opting to sharpen his skills in the PBA D-League.

The Growling Tigers struggled mightily that season, winning just one game under head coach Boy Sablan.

After Sablan's exit, Subido rejoined UST and found renewed confidence with Aldin Ayo at the helm of the squad.

"For me this is the best season I’ve ever had, I learned a lot from the experiences this season, But I’m grateful for my teammates, for the Thomasian comunity," Subido said.

"I just want to be remembered as a person who’s hardworking, who gave everything for UST because that’s what they really deserve," added the UST point guard who propelled his squad to the finals with a game-winning 3-pointer against University of Santo Tomas in a sudden death semis match.

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Subido said he will always remember his time at España.

"Mami-miss ko, the crowd. ‘Yung cheer nila ng Go USTe, that would be the most memorable for me. Hindi ko makakalimutan ‘yun," he said.

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