Collegiate basketball offseason moves continue as Wello Lingolingo heads to De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, while Jomel Puno has bid farewell to San Beda University.
Lingolingo and Blazers head coach Charles Tiu confirmed the move to GMA News Online on Tuesday.
In a social media post on Sunday, Lingolingo shared his farewell message to the University of the East community.
“I am truly grateful to the entire UE community for welcoming me and supporting me throughout the past four years. Wearing the red and white jersey meant more than just representing a team—it meant representing a family, a tradition, and a community that believed in me from the very beginning,” Lingolingo said in the caption of his post.
“As I close this chapter of my journey, I carry with me memories, friendships, and lessons that will last a lifetime. Though my time on the court with this jersey may end, the spirit, pride, and love for this team will always remain. UE will forever be where my UAAP story began, and that will always hold a special place in my heart.”
In UAAP Season 88, Lingolingo averaged 14.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
He is set to reunite with former UE teammate Nico Mulingtapang as they join the Blazers for NCAA Season 103.
Meanwhile, Puno posted his farewell message to San Beda last Saturday.
“Being just a kid from across the world with dreams of playing at the pro level, San Beda welcomed me into their family, brotherhood, and home. I wasn’t able to start my college career in Canada due to COVID and personal reasons, so I’m truly grateful that I was able to spend my entire college career here in the Philippines welcomed by San Beda,” Puno wrote.
“During my time here, I’ve learned so much and grown not only as a player, but also as a person. From this experience I grew to love my roots, the people and of course the culture. The lessons, memories, and relationships I’ve built will stay with me forever and will continue to guide me in the next chapter of my journey.”
Puno added that “It’s time for me to challenge myself and take the next step by competing in new environments, which will be announced in the future. I believe stepping out of my comfort zone is necessary for me to reach the goals I’ve set for myself.”
Puno, who played for three years with the Red Lions, was part of San Beda’s championship teams in Seasons 99 and 101. In the most recent season, he averaged 6.75 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.
—GMA Integrated News
