Meet Jose Rizal University rookie Renz Bernardo.
On Saturday, in just his third game in the NCAA, Bernardo had a breakout game and finished with 13 points and was the Heavy Bombers' second top scorer behind Joshua Guiab. JRU defeated Emilio Aguinaldo College then, 75-63.
Apparently, the JRU guard has been part of the Mandaluyong-based squad's program for two years already, but has only made it to the lineup this season.
"Renz has been with the program for two years already. Ito 'yung players na nakita namin at nagtiyaga, nadiskubre namin," head coach Louie Gonzalez said.
"Walang experience itong mga players na ito playing in a bigger league. Ito 'yung biggest adjustment nila -- playing on the big stage with drums and everything, on TV. Talagang they're here to prove themselves."
Gonzalez described Bernardo as one of his hardworking players.
"Grabe magtrabaho ang batang ito like the other rookies like Marvin and ibang players that are performing right now."
The 21-year old player from Valenzuela, meanwhile, said he first tried out with National University before trying his luck in JRU.
Now, he has introduced himself to the league.
"Nagtrabaho lang po ako para ma-lineup," Bernardo said.
"Sobrang thankful po ako kasi na-deliver ko 'yung kailangan namin sa team and nakatulong ako sa team para maipanalo namin ito."
"Palaging nagpapasalamat ako kasi malaking tiwala binibigay sa' kin ng teammates ko and sina coach," he added.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
