Growling Tigers remain winless as Blue Eagles prevail

THE UNIVERSITY Santo of Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers suffered their fifth straight loss against the undefeated Ateneo Blue Eagles, 84-94, in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

UST kept the fight close by the end of the third quarter with Jordan Sta. Ana hitting a pair of free throws to cut Ateneo's lead down to five, 76-71, but the Eagles continually sank threes throughout the game to secure a win.

"Eight veterans and eight rookies, and we have just prepared for six to eight months, [kaya] medyo mahirap 'yung chemistry," UST head coach Boy Sablan said.

Sablan remained positive nonetheless, impressed by the team's performance during the game.

"Malaking bagay kasi down by 22 points then bumaba ng one point in five minutes. Kahit sino sigurong team or player medyo madadagdagan yung confidence level," he added.

Matt Nieto led Ateneo with 22 points while Isaac Go added 15 markers.

Marvin Lee and Sta. Ana paced UST with 22 and 21 points, respectively.

UST is now at a 0-5 win-loss record, while ADMU remains undefeated, 5-0.

The Growling Tigers will try to catch again their first win against the De La Salle Green Archers while the Blue Eagles will next face the National University Bulldogs.

Both games will be on Saturday, September 30, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Box scores:

UST 84 - Lee 22, Sta. Ana 21, Romero 6, Faundo 6, Escalambre 6, Akomo 6, Huang 4, Basibas 4, Garcia 4, Soriano 3, De Guzman 2, Kwawukumey 0, Arana 0

ADMU 94 - Ma. Nieto 22, Go 13, Ravena 12, Mamuyac 8, Asistio 7, Ikeh 7, Mi. Nieto 6, Tolentino 5, Verano 4, Mallillin 3, Tio 3, Black 2, Mendoza 2, Porter 0

Quarter Scores:

29-23, 26-20, 21-28, 18-13