UAAP Rookie Profile: Zain Mahmood of the UST Growling Tigers

UST’s big man, Zain Mahmood, has definitely added some fun and talent to their roster. He talked to ALL-STAR about the reason behind his new jersey number and the reason why he’s excited to play against Ateneo. Zain also shared his plans for his ideal first date, and he really, really gave it the works.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Zain: My name is Zain Mahmood. I’m from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. I’m 19 years old, and I go to University of Sto. Thomas where I play power forward.

Q: How tall are you, and what’s your foot size?

Zain: I’m 6-foot-7 and I wear size 14.

Q: And what are your favorite kicks?

Zain: Gotta be the PUMA All Pro Nitro, I like the comfort. I feel like I don’t even have to break them when I play, I can just wear them and take them to the court and do my best.

Q: What’s one word to describe yourself?

Zain: Persevering. I think I’ve been through a lot of trials and stuff like that. I think a lot of other people would have quit by now or they would have changed their path. I was able to persevere it and make it through.

Q: Outside of basketball, do you have any other hobbies?

Zain: Besides basketball, I like to listen to music, watch movies, play games with my teammates. Nothing too crazy, it’s just that I don’t got a lot of energy because I’m tired all the time with all the practice and stuff. 

Q: You said that you love to listen to music. Any song recommendations?

Zain: I really like La Dona – Childish Gambino. I really like Childish Gambino and his vibe. And that song hits you right here [in the heart].

Q: Do you have any fun facts that you want to share with your fans?

Zain: I spent my last two years of high school in California where I lived with 3 dogs, 3 cats, a snake, a lizard, a turtle, and a bird. 

Q: Let’s dive a little into love talks. What is your ideal first date?

Zain: My ideal first date, you know, you got to give it the works. You got to go somewhere nice to eat, get to know each other over a late lunch or early dinner. Then maybe go get some desserts, whatever she’s feeling, maybe some boba or ice cream or yoghurt. Maybe go watch a movie if there’s anything good or poppin’ out right now. If it’s a little too late, maybe just get to a little scenery and get to know each other there and just really get to build that bond.

Q: Do you currently have a girlfriend?

Zain: Right now, no.

Q: Who are your inspirations in life?

Zain: Definitely my mom and my dad. I know that it’s the easy answer, but they did so much for me growing up. They didn’t have to believe in me as much as they did, and they didn’t have to bring me, let me come here and do what I wanted to do, but they were able to support me and give it their all every day for me.

Q: What’s your jersey number?

Zain: 21

Q: Any story behind that?

Zain: Right now I wear 15, but for UAAP I’ll be wearing 21. I just feel right when I wear those numbers, there’s no super special explanation behind it. I just feel like I identify with 21, and that’s why I’ll wear it.

Q: Who is your GOAT?

Zain: My GOAT is LeBron James

Q: Which UAAP Team are you most excited to go against? 

Zain: There’s a lot of them, but I’m definitely looking forward to playing Ateneo. It’s just cause they’re recruiting me from young, but things went left. Now I’m just looking forward to proving them what I can do.

Q: Apart from yourself, who do you think might win Rookie of the Year?

Zain: Veejay Pre! That guy, he was actually in our Gilas pool. I’m pretty sure he got on his reserve, but he has grown so much and he’s just playing so much talent and growth. If it’s not me, I can see it being him especially with his role for the Tamaraw team.

Q: If you’re a pizza topping, what would you be and why?

Zain: Can I be the cheese? Because I feel like that has the most influence.

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