Jarencio defends Mariano, takes blame for UST collapse

MANILA, Philippines – University of Santo Tomas head coach Pido Jarencio opted not to speak with the media following the Growling Tigers’ stunning loss to the De La Salle Green Archers last in the deciding game of the UAAP Season 76 men’s basketball championship Saturday night.

Jarencio though shared some of his thoughts on Twitter late Sunday night.

Jarencio was referring to his forward Aljon Mariano, who was relentlessly being blamed for UST’s 69-71 defeat in overtime.

Mariano was heavily criticized for his untimely struggles in the Finals particularly for taking and missing the last-second shot in regulation and for turning the ball over on an errant pass that led to the title-clinching basket by La Salle guard Almond Vosotros in OT.

Mariano, one of UST’s go-to players since last season, did bury two crucial free throws with under a minute left that paved the way for extra time and grabbed 10 rebounds.