CEBUANO guard Darrell Shane Menina has transferred to the UAAP’s National University Bulldogs, seeking a fresh start to his collegiate career.
Cebu Daily News spoke to the Talisay City native in between his classes. The former University of Cebu Baby Webmaster said that he needed a change of venue, without going into detail what his issues were with the Mapua Cardinals.
What is clear though is that the presence of fellow Bisayas factored into his decision to join the Jamike Jarin-mentored team.
“I just wanted to play for NU. I have several teammates that are also Bisaya so I feel right at home,” said Menina, who followed a fantastic rookie campaign by tacking on 9.1 points and 3.3 assists per game last season.
“It feels a lot different. I feel right at home and it feels like I fit here,” Menina said. NU currently has eight players with roots from the Visayas and Mindanao. In Team A, there’s fellow Cesafi products Dave Wilson Yu, Adven Jess Diputado and Theo Flores.
Menina’s fit into the Bulldogs’ system will be immediately tested as he suits up for NU’s Team B this Sunday in the Fr. Martin’s Cup.
As it is, Menina stated that he is cherishing every chance to know his teammates more.
Yu, who is expected to be one of the cornerstones of NU’s campaign in the UAAP this season, welcomed the addition of his fellow Cebuano.
“He adds even more depth to our guard rotation. And he is someone who knows how to create for both himself and his teammates,” said Yu.