By Jun Ray Navarres
The University of Santo Tomas were off to a dream start after mauling University of the East, 70-55 in UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball, Sunday afternoon at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
After a disappointing season 86 showing where they only won two games, both against the Far Eastern University, head coach Pido Jarencio and most retainers of the Growling Tigers are scheduled for a comeback this year.
“Players want to win. They’re sharing the ball, they played as a group, saka ang importante ito team ko na ito eh, saka matagal na itong preparasyon namin kaya we’re ready. Mahabang season ito pero for sure, with the coaches that I have, we’ll be ready,” said Jarencio after the game.
UST had difficulties in starting their engine but found their groove midway through the first period to escape the Red Warriors, 18-8. The Growling Tigers continued their momentum before halftime, adding 18 more points to increase the deficit going into the dugout, 36-19.
UE gathered themselves after the halftime break but UST’s passing and persistence held back any possible comeback from the Red Warriors.
Senior guard Nic Cabañero continued to lead the Growling Tigers with 14 points despite struggling with 4-14 from the field. Fellow senior Christian Manaytay added 10 points in a plus-15 showing.
Forthsky Padrigao dished out seven assists while grabbing six rebounds to balance the 2-10 struggle from the field.
Foreign student athlete Mo Tounkara made an immediate impact for UST adding 13 points, four boards, and two steals.
“This is only the first game, so we’re looking forward to building more chemistry with the team. That’s the most important thing. We’re here to compete with ourselves and against all the other teams,” he said.
Precious Momowei led the charge for the Caloocan-based university with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and four dimes. Ethan Galang added 11 points.
UST will be facing Ateneo in their next outing on Wednesday while UE looks to revive themselves against championship contenders, University of the Philippines on Saturday.
Images courtesy of UAAP Media Bureau
Follow the writer on X: @burnsports
