Playing without two of their leading scorers, the UST Growling Tigers cruised past the University of Makati Herons, 92-55, on Sunday, Aug. 23, at the Blue Eagle Gym to secure a quarterfinal berth in the Pinoyliga Cup – The Big Dance.
The Tigers were missing key frontcourt players Collins Akowe and Landyn Jumawan, who combined for 40 points and 19 rebounds in the AsiaBasket NSAC World Invitational final. Despite their absence, UST dominated the boards, 46-22.
Carl Manding paced the Tigers with 16 points on 5-of-7 shooting and six rebounds, while Peter Osang and Ice Danting contributed 11 and nine points, respectively.
With the tournament serving as the Tigers’ final competition before the UAAP season, Manding said it was a good chance to showcase his skills.
“This year, gusto ko lang i-improve kung paano ako magiging helpful sa team, kung paano ako magiging contributor sa depensa at rebounds, and makuha ‘yong tiwala ni Coach Pido [Jarencio] na puwede ako makalaro,” he told the Varsitarian.
Danting sparked a 17-5 run early in the game as UST took a 26-13 advantage heading into the second period.
With the Tigers ahead by 20, 39-19, Yhano Lacsarum helped the Herons mount a comeback in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to 12, 39-26. UST responded with an 11-1 surge to close the first half with a 23-point cushion, 50-27.
The Tigers carried their momentum into the second half, going on a 10-3 run highlighted by 3-pointers from Koji Buenaflor and Brylle Teng to enter the final frame ahead by 44, 79-35.
UST maintained control down the stretch, clinching the 37-point win.
Vhon Roldan was the only Heron to score in double figures, finishing with 10 points, two assists and two steals.
UST will next face the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates in the quarterfinals. Dan Cedric V. Latasa
