“YOU know what’s best for you.”
This was Robert Bolick’s mantra when he transferred from De La Salle to San Beda in 2015.
It was a big leap of faith for the now 24-year-old, but it was probably one of the best decisions he's ever made for his career.
His move helped him progress from being a deep bench player in the UAAP, clocking in limited minutes with the Green Archers, to an NCAA star and a King Lion.
In August 2018, Bolick even figured in one of the league's greatest performances in recent memory, scoring a career-high 50 points as he led the Red Lions past the Arellano Chiefs, 98-79.
Bolick later flourished as one of the best young guards in the PBA and for Gilas Pilipinas.
Today, with both the NCAA and UAAP in off-season due to the coronavirus pandemic, transfer reports have dominated the headlines of the collegiate leagues.
How effective are these decisions? Bolick is one to speak, of course, based on his own experiences.
“For me, I wanted playing time. I don’t want the money, I don’t want the extra things, I just want to play because I worked hard [for it],” the NorthPort Batang Pier standout told SPIN Life. “I transferred because I love the game, and binigyan ako ng San Beda ng opportunity para makalaro.”
Players may have different reasons for their transfers. But while Bolick believes there’s no inherent problem with moving from one team to another, he also clarified that student-athletes should prioritize personal improvement. The rest will follow.
“I owe everything na meron ako sa school ko, and I’m proud of my alma mater,” he said. “Athletes have different reasons why they transfer, but kahit saan ka pumunta ang isipin mo lang work hard.”
The Ormoc native added: “Punta ka sa team na alam mong magagamit ka to showcase your talent, stop thinking too much about money or kung anu-ano pa. Just focus on saan ka makakalaro. You must prove everyone wrong.”
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