WITH SEVEN seconds left in the second overtime against the UP Fighting Maroons last Wednesday, UST Growling Tigers rookie Kirk Cañete had a chance to seal the win.
A victory will finally end what seemed to be a curse plaguing the España squad when facing off with the Diliman crew.
The Catholic university bowed to the state-run institution in 13 of their 14 last matches, including two Final Four elimination losses.
But there was no reversal of the curse that night.
Down by a single point after converting a defensive stop, Cañete drove right into the heart of the UP defense in an attempt to reclaim the lead, but was stuffed by senior guard Noy Remogat.
A free throw from Veejay Pre, followed by a stolen inbound pass, ultimately sealed the win for the Maroons, claiming their fourth straight victory against UST.
The defeat spoiled Cañete’s career-high 16 points and five assists in 33 minutes of play and pulled down the España team’s win-loss record to 4-4.
The former Tiger Cub acknowledged the lessons he gained from the match.
“I feel grateful because even though I’m still a rookie, I played on the court for both overtimes. In my previous games, I’m not as composed as I wanted to be,” Cañete told The Flame.
“But I learn something from every game, and I make sure those lessons don’t go to waste,” he added.
The Growling Tigers will try to turn the tables against the reigning DLSU Green Archers on Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.
Although UST bested La Salle, 78-73, during their first outing last Sept. 16, the rookie is roaring to recover from last Wednesday’s heartbreaking but lesson-filled loss.
“This game was a huge learning experience for me, and I just have to bounce back for the following games,” he said. F – L. Viray
