Justine Mascariñas Enters, UE Roster Expands
University of the East (UE) fans have been waiting for a big man to join the team. That wait ends with the addition of Justine Mascariñas, standing at 6’5” and only 21 years old.
Mascariñas began his basketball career with the Perpetual Junior Altas program in the NCAA before being elevated to the seniors’ team.
However, his journey at Perpetual faced setbacks, as he did not receive playing time in both NCAA Seasons 99 and 100, even under different coaches.
Justine admitted, “nasakto na priority i-line up ang mga seniors ko na puro 4 and 5 din ang laro.” Perpetual has been his home for most of his basketball career, which made it difficult for him to say goodbye.
“Ayaw pa po sana ako paalisin ni Coach [Olsen], pero sinabi ko po na desisyon na ito ng pamilya ko.”
Justine recalled an emotional conversation with his coaches on the very court where he had trained every day.
Despite the emotions of leaving memories behind in the south, Justine found positivity as he settled into his new home at the heart of Manila—inside the UE Gym along Recto.
“Noong nasa Perpetual po ako, nawalan na po ako ng gana maglaro, pero ngayon unti-unti na bumabalik saya ko sa paglalaro,”
he shared, further validating that he made the right decision.
At the same time, he clarified that he wanted to bring back his original nickname. “Justine naman po talaga ang pagkakakilala saakin, sa Perpetual lang ako naging Bryle,” showing that this transfer and change of alias mark a new chapter in his life.
RELATED: Axle Javier Starts Anew with the UE Red Warriors
He is currently serving one year of residency alongside former Perpetual teammate Axle Javier before becoming eligible to play in UAAP Season 89. Afterwards, he is eligible to play for the Red Warriors for two years.
