University of Santo Tomas (UST) proved that the future is now as it overpowered Discovery Perlas, 82-67, to kick off the Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League late Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

In a battle between old guard and next generation of lady cagers, freshman Karylle Sierba shone brightest while Nigerian center Oma Onianwa chipped in significant numbers for the Growling Tigresses, who emerged as runner-up to National University in the ongoing University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season.

Sierba fired 14 points on a 6-for-12 shooting from the field while Onianwa flirted with a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds to put the home squad, which pulled away in the second quarter after closing the first half with a decisive 10-0 run that set the tone for the rest of the game.

UST built a lead as large as 27 points, making it difficult for Perlas to rally back.

National team assistant coach Allana Lim led Perlas with 17 points and nine assists while Camille Sambile added 13 markers in the losing effort.

Nicole Danganan of UST etched her name in WMPBL history by scoring the league’s first-ever point, converting 1-of-2 free throws to open the game.

The league’s opening ceremonies were graced by Senators Manny Pacquiao and Francis Tolentino, who both delivered inspirational speeches alongside WMPBL commissioner Haydee Ong, who is also the head coach of the Growling Tigresses in the UAAP.

“This league is more than a competition. It is a platform for empowerment and a celebration of excellence for Filipinas who dare to dream big. This is a league for Filipina players who are fighting and dreaming,” Pacquiao, the league’s chairman, said in his opening remark.

“At WMPBL, they are not just part of the game ‘they are the heart of the game.’”

Meanwhile, the Imus Sis-VBL Lady Magdalo and the New Zealand-Bluefire Valkyries also secured victories.

The Lady Magdalo edged out the PSP Lady Gymers in a tight 73-70 battle despite the ejection of head coach Alex de Los Santos.

Khaterine Cantimbuhan led Imus with 17 points and three assists, while Annie Grace Pamaran and Nikka Villanueva contributed 16 and 15 points, respectively.