The top two seeds lived up to the billing.
The UST Growling Tigresses broke a couple of long-standing streaks when they defeated the NU Lady Bulldogs, 76-72, on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena to take Game 1 of the UAAP Season 86 women’s basketball finals.
First, they ended the Lady Bulldogs’ 14-game winning streak in the Last Dance. Second, UST snapped a 20-game losing streak to NU. It was the Tigresses' first victory over the mighty Lady Bulldogs since 2012.
“So happy, of course, that finally, mayroon na kaming panalo against NU, which is most important because this is the championship series. Thank you sa girls, they really worked hard for this until the last second," said UST coach Haydee Ong in a media release.
The lady hoopers from España are now one win away from dethroning the seven-time defending champions.
Tigresses ace Kent Pastrana came up big anew, as she posted a team-high 15 points, on top of six rebounds and four steals off the bench. Right behind her was Tacky Tacatac, who finished with 14 markers, including 11 in the third, two assists, and two steals. The two led UST’s balanced attack, which also saw Reynalyn Ferrer, Brigette Santos, and Angelina Villasin score in double figures.
“Binigay ko lang talaga 'yung best ko na maglaro ako para kay Coach Haydee and sa team. Talagang ibigay mo lang lahat, lalabas naman 'yung result," said the graduating Ferrer, who missed last season's tournament due to an ACL injury.
Santos also played a crucial role in the endgame, as she stole the ball from NU, which was looking to tie the game with 6.5 seconds left. The Growling Tigresses were up, 75-72, at that point.
Over at NU’s side, it was Gilas Pilipinas mainstay Camille Clarin who showed out with 18 points and six boards.
The Growling Tigresses will go for the kill, while the Lady Bulldogs will try to preserve their dynasty.
Game 2 is this Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
(PM)