A one-game improvement from the previous season.
The UST Growling Tigers ended their UAAP Season 86 campaign on a winning note after taking down the FEU Tamaraws, 57-53, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Saturday.
The Growling Tigers came out of the gates hot, as they built up a double-digit lead that they maintained throughout the contest.
It was only in the fourth quarter that the Tamaraws managed to put a little bit of pressure on the España-based squad. But it was too late.
The Growling Tigers grabbed their second win of the season, repeating their success against FEU in the first round. This marked a one-game improvement for the Growling Tigers following their 1-13 finish in Season 85.
Christian Manaytay led the way for UST with 12 points, nine rebounds, one steal, and one block. Graduating player Migs Pangilinan added 10 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
Coach Pido Jarecio, who made his return to UST this season after 10 years, lauded his team’s poise.
“We're composed all throughout the game and then in the endgame, siyempre merong team na magkakaroon ng run, but I give it to the players, 'yung composure nandun,” Jarecio said in the postgame press conference.
“Hindi nawalan ng pag-asa and then siguro enough is enough, bugbog na sa talo. Siguro this is the time na puwede namin sigurong makuha 'yung second win namin for the season,” he added.
However, Jarencio, who jokingly said before the season that winning two games would be more than enough for the team, said he's accountable for UST's lowly record.
“It's still a bad season. Two wins in 14 games,” said Jarencio. “Hindi natin puwede i-kumpara 'yung last year, basta kami, we're here fighting. I just take full responsibility sa lahat ng nangyari.”
ALSO READ: School Spirit: UST starting five among active players in PBA
In true Jarencio fashion, the well-loved tactician had something to say to his haters.
“'Yung (UST) community, pasensya na. 'Yung mga bashers ko, I love you all,” said Jarencio.
(With reports from Aivan Episcope, One Sports Digital)
(PM)