At A Glance
- University of Santo Tomas is keeping its eyes on the biggest prize in UAAP women's basketball, and its overwhelming performance so far should prove the seriousness of the school's intentions to win it all in Season 88.
UST's Kent Pastrana (UAAP Media)
University of Santo Tomas is keeping its eyes on the biggest prize in UAAP women's basketball, and its overwhelming performance so far should prove the seriousness of the school's intentions to win it all in Season 88.
Fresh off a 104-54 rout of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons (2-8), the Golden Tigresses, holders of a 10-game win streak, are nearing an elimination sweep and an outright Finals ticket.
“Same pa rin ang mentality namin ng mga girls to take it one game at a time, and to be consistent, and to improve each and every game,” said UST head coach Haydee Ong.
“That's why in every training session namin talaga I try to emphasize parin ‘yong individual defense namin. Because that will win us games ‘yong consistent and relentless defense throughout the season,” she added.
Fueled to bounce back from their Finals setback against National University last year, Kent Pastrana and Co. have been on a roll with most of their victories a lopsided one.
The victory over the Maroons marked the Tigresses’ third 100-point game with the first two coming against Far Eastern University (104-66) and De La Salle University (105-56).
UST also received a boost on both ends from the supporting cast bannered by Karylle Sierba and Rachell Ambos.
“Pagpasok palang namin for this season, sinabi ko na everybody has a role to play, pag tinawag at maglaro, they have to be ready,” Ong continued.
“Kasi parang sinasabi namin, na sometimes medyo off ‘yong ibang players, they have to step up, and I think na-embrace na ng buong team ‘yong role at responsibility nila pagdating sa mga laro namin,” she added.