University of Santo Tomas stretched its unbeaten run to three games after a 99-42 rout of the University of the East in the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball tournament Saturday at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Growling Tigresses took control early, pouring in 25 points in the first quarter while holding the Lady Warriors to just five to set up the 57-point blowout. UST now sits alone atop the standings at 3-0.
Coach Haydee Ong credited her team’s focus and discipline, especially after UE’s close overtime loss to the University of the Philippines last week.
‘We’re happy that our game plan was followed,’ Ong said. ‘At the start of the season, I told my team that we need to focus on individual and team defense. We want our opponents to perform below their average every time we face them.’
UST dominated both ends, forcing 32 turnovers that led to 30 points off UE miscues, while also tallying 28 steals. Nigerian center Oma Onianwa continued her solid play with 17 points and six rebounds in just 19 minutes. Kent Pastrana had 13 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals, while Breana Pineda added 13 points on 4-of-6 shooting.
Karylle Sierba also chipped in 11 points as Ong rotated all 15 active players, except guard Eka Soriano, who sat out with an ankle injury.
UE dropped to 0-3, extending its losing streak to 13 games dating back to last season. Ivy Yañez led the Lady Warriors with 12 points, while former UST high school standout Rachel Lacayanga scored 10.
Both teams return to action next Saturday at the newly renovated Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym-the first women’s division game there since Season 82.