Fact: Women’s basketball in the Philippines has seen exponential growth in recent years. Here’s another fact: It’s great! In the UAAP, the talent has never been more impressive and the players deserve more time in the spotlight.
With the appointment of Atty. Mariana Lopa as the deputy commissioner of UAAP women’s and girls’ basketball, the development of the game will only get better. That’s as sure as a wide-open layup.
Here are the top five performers—ranked—after the first game day of women’s basketball in UAAP Season 86.
5. Tricia Mendoza - De La Salle Lady Archers
The De La Salle Lady Archers put up a gallant stand against the FEU Tamaraws, but they fell short, absorbing a 75-68 defeat. Mendoza, however, was all kinds of impressive, putting up 23 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. We’re calling it: Mythical Five member.
4. Karl Ann Pingol - NU Lady Bulldogs
The NU Lady Bulldogs started their quest for an eighth straight title with a convincing win over the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 77-57. It was a collective effort for the reigning queens, but it was Pingol who stood out with 11 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Truly a legit hooper.
3. Kent Pastrana - UST Growling Tigresses
Before facing the UE Lady Warriors, Pastrana hadn’t played in the UAAP since 2019. Well, so what? The former Rookie of the Year hasn’t skipped a beat, leading the UST Growling Tigresses to a come-from-behind win, 63-46, with 20 points and 11 boards. Don’t call it a comeback!
2. Justine Domingo - UP Fighting Maroons
The UP Fighting Maroons hardly broke a sweat against the Adamson Lady Falcons for a 92-61 victory. They got off to a swashbuckling start led by Domingo, delivering a Sabrina Ionescu-esque 17 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. She was masterful all game. It must be the hair.
1. Josee Kaputu - FEU Tamaraws
It was a smashing UAAP debut for Kaputu, as she put up 27 points, nine boards, and three dimes to power the Tamaraws over the Lady Archers. The tough Congo native is a huge problem for the opposing squads. She will face an early test against the Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday.