Mahmood Departs UST, Eyes New Opportunity in College Ball
Photo: UAAP Media Team
Promising Filipino-Pakistani big man Zain Mahmood has officially parted ways with the UST Growling Tigers and will seek a new university home to continue his college basketball journey in the Philippines.
Mahmood’s decision, confirmed by his camp at Fil-Nation Select, was not made lightly. The 6-foot-7 standout had hoped to grow with the rebuilding UST program after committing in March 2024.
But with limited playing time and no defined role on the team during UAAP Season 87 and in the current offseason leading up to Season 88, Mahmood ultimately chose to explore options where he could better develop and contribute meaningfully. Despite the move, there is no animosity between Mahmood and UST.
According to his camp, the separation was amicable.
That next chapter could be with a contender. Mahmood is reportedly receiving interest from multiple Final Four-caliber teams in both the UAAP and NCAA. If he joins another UAAP team, he would be eligible to play starting in Season 89, with two years of eligibility left after fulfilling a one-year residency in 2025.
A move to an NCAA program, however, would offer him four years of eligibility starting NCAA Season 102, after the same residency period. Mahmood’s motivation is clear: to find the environment best suited for his growth as a player and as a competitor.
RELATED: UAAP Rookie Profile: Zain Mahmood of the UST Growling Tigers
Mahmood, 19, first drew attention after representing the Philippines in the 2022 FIBA U-18 Asian Championship, where he averaged 11.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Before moving to the Philippines, he captained Maranatha High School in Pasadena, California, where he led his team to a playoff berth while putting up solid numbers – 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game.
Though his stint with UST was brief, Mahmood still showed flashes of his potential in limited minutes during UAAP Season 87, including a gritty outing against La Salle and solid showings in the UAAP 3×3 tournament. Now, with a clean slate ahead, he’ll look to channel that potential into a meaningful role with a new squad.
Wherever he lands, Zain Mahmood remains a name to watch in the evolving landscape of Philippine college basketball.
