UST rips La Salle, keeps perfect card
KARYLLE Sierba supplies the firepower, leading the UST Growling Tigresses to a 97-74 win over the La Salle Lady Archers in the UAAP Season 89 women’s basketball tournament on Wednesday.
Phtograph courtesy of UAAP
Defending champion University of Santo Tomas (UST) overwhelmed De La Salle University, 97-74, to remain unbeaten in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 89 women’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
With their ninth consecutive victory, the Growling Tigresses strengthened their Final Four bid and remained atop the standings with a spotless 9-0 record.
“I told them that we were shooting poorly with our three-point shots. But I told the girls, just keep shooting whenever you’re free. At least we were able to increase the lead to 13,” UST head coach Haydee Ong said.
With both teams shooting just 30 percent from the field in the first half, UST found its rhythm from beyond the arc to create some separation.
The Growling Tigresses knocked down five triples to establish a 43-30 halftime lead, while the Lady Archers struggled to convert from deep.
UST continued to exploit gaps in La Salle’s zone defense after the break, stretching its advantage to as many as 28 points, 92-64, in the fourth quarter.
Defensively, the Growling Tigresses also limited the Lady Archers’ scoring opportunities, finishing with nearly 50 more field goal attempts than their opponents while forcing 23 turnovers.
“I had to be consistent and lead for the young players. We need to help each other as a team and defend,” said Brig Santos, who finished with 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
Oma Onianwa posted a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Karylle Sierba contributed 17 points, five rebounds, and three steals.
Erinn McAlary chipped in 10 points and three rebounds.
The Growling Tigresses will next face the upstart FEU Lady Tamaraws on Sunday at the same venue.
La Salle, meanwhile, dropped to 1-8 following its seventh consecutive defeat, leaving the Lady Archers at the bottom of the standings, at least momentarily.
Marga Dueñas paced the Lady Archers with 18 points and four rebounds, while Kyla Go recorded 17 points, five assists and two steals.