The cold-blooded cats were at it again at the start of the second round of the women's basketball tournament in UAAP Season 86.
The race to the top has become even tighter after the UST Growling Tigresses upset the UP Fighting Maroons. The hard-biting NU Lady Bulldogs, meanwhile, extended their winning streak to five games.
Like in the past weeks, five ladies stood out the most with their production, impact, and talent. As Sam Sneed and Dre. Dre said: You better recognize.
5. Kacey dela Rosa - Ateneo Blue Eagles
Ateneo dropped a close one to NU, 84-74. But the Blue Eagles could've easily been blown out if not for another strong output from dela Rosa. She collected 29 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks in a valiant effort versus the defending champion. The reigning Rookie of the Year is a total talent.
4. Queenie Aquino - FEU Tamaraws
FEU broke its four-game skid in a win over the UE Lady Warriors, 64-47. A huge part of that was Aquino, who set the tone early for the Tamaraws with 16 points in the first half. She ended up with 23 markers plus three assists. But she will have to slay better in their next game against NU.
3. Tricia Mendoza - De La Salle Lady Archers
After being quiet in their last few games, Mendoza once again caught on fire in their win over the Adamson Lady Falcons, 71-61. She had a stellar game with 17 points, 13 boards, three dimes, two steals, and two blocks. Coach Cholo Villanueva praised Mendoza for her solid two-way impact.
2. Tin Cayabyab - NU Lady Bulldogs
Cayabyab recorded her second straight terrific outing after leading NU over Ateneo to stretch their winning streak. The floor general tallied 18 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals. With different stars stepping up, it seems the Lady Bulldogs are peaking at the perfect time.
1. Kent Pastrana - UST Growling Tigresses
With the game on the line, Pastrana took matters into her own hands. She scored nine of her 25 points in the final frame, including the game-sealing bucket, to lead UST past UP, 74-72. The 23-year-old cager has been big for the Growling Tigresses all season, and she's not about to let up soon.