(Photo courtesy of UAAP)
MANILA – Defending champion University of Santo Tomas (UST) extended its unbeaten run in the UAAP Season 89 women’s basketball tournament with a dominant 106-48 victory over the University of the East (UE) at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.
Karylle Sierba led the Golden Tigresses with 21 points, six assists and three steals as UST secured its 11th consecutive victory to remain atop the standings.
Sierba said the team remains focused on executing its game plan rather than dwelling on its undefeated record.
“Kahit sino man makalaban namin, focus pa rin kami sa game plan namin. Wala rin kaming iniisip na wala pa kaming talo, basta’t may kalaban kami, focus lang kami and mag-team effort kami every game,” Sierba said.
Oma Onianwa recorded a double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds, while CJ Maglupay added 13 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks in just 12 minutes.
Brig Santos also contributed 11 points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals in UST’s commanding performance.
Head coach Haydee Ong, returning from a one-game suspension, credited the team’s defense and collective effort for its continued success.
“It’s a team effort pa rin. Ang defense namin, we take pride in it every time we play. Getting ready for another game on Sunday, so one game at a time pa rin,” Ong said.
The Golden Tigresses will aim to preserve their perfect record when they face Ateneo de Manila University at the same venue on Sunday at noon.
Meanwhile, Rachel Lacayanga paced UE with 21 points, seven rebounds and four steals, but the Lady Warriors suffered their third consecutive defeat and dropped to a 1-10 record.
UE will seek to bounce back against National University on Saturday at 10 a.m., also at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
