THE UST Growling Tigers absorbed a 72-89 drubbing from the Ateneo de Manila University in their opening game in the 11th Filoil Flying V Hanes Preseason Cup at the Arena in San Juan Friday.
Ateneo, which lead 63-53 with 7:35 remaining in the fourth, uncorked a 15-4 run in less than two minutes of play to pull away for good, 78-57.
The Blue Eagles shot 51 percent from the field.
Mike Nieto had a game-high 15 points for Ateneo while Isaac Go added 10 in the win.
Newcomer Jordan Sta. Ana paced UST with 11 points while Jeepy Faundo chipped in 10. UST played without Renzo Subido and Mario Bonleon.
The Tigers will face the UE Red Warriors on May 7, Sunday at 11:15 am at the same venue.
