THE UST Growling Tigresses extended their winning streak to four after trouncing the DLSU Lady Archers, 93-67, in the UAAP Season 86 women’s basketball tournament on Sunday, Oct. 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Tigresses achieved their new highest-scoring game this season, surpassing their previous victory against the same team during the first round, 91-57.
It was also the second highest score in the league. The NU Lady Bulldogs, who tallied 95 points twice, hold the highest record this season.
The Tigresses started strong in the opening quarter, converting three steals in the first four minute mark of the frame and pulling off 13 points from the bench that powered them with a 10-point lead against the Lady Archers, 25-15.
UST sustained its great offensive rhythm in the second frame as Tacky Tacatac’s two three pointers and Brigette Santos’ three breakaways scored six points apiece, 50-29.
The España-based squad dominated the second half by shooting from the field goal. The Lady Archers tried to retaliate but failed to keep up with the Tigresses, who ended the third quarter with a 34-point advantage, 81-47.
DLSU managed to accomplish an 8-0 run against UST in the final quarter, 83-57. However, Tigress Agatha Bron broke the momentum with back-to-back dagger threes to set the tone and maintain the lead, 93-67.
Five Growling Tigresses finished the game with double digits. Tacatac balled out 17 points and five assists, while Santos contributed 12 points and unleashed five assists. Rachelle Ambos also finished in double-digits with 11 points and an assist. Reynalyn Ferrer pulled off 10 points, four assists and a steal.
Despite her slow performance during the first half, Tigress guard Kent Pastrana was able to average 10 points, two assists and three dimes.
Ann Mendoza, Luisa San Juan and Bernice Paraiso led DLSU with 12 points apiece.
UST climbed to the second spot with a 7-2 win-loss record after securing four straight victories, while UP dropped to the third spot, 7-2, after bowing to the Tigresses last Oct. 25. The NU Lady Bulldogs remain at the top with a 8-1 record.
The Growling Tigresses will try to exact revenge on the NU Lady Bulldogs on Nov. 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena. F — Franz Martin Dizon
