UAAP women’s basketball: La Salle leans on rookies to dump UE, FEU thumps Ateneo

MANILA, Philippines—A pair of rookies led De La Salle to an easy 91-58 victory over University of the East in the UAAP Season 82 women’s basketball tournament Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

Kent Pastrana had 20 points, three rebounds, and three assists to lead the Lady Archers, who rebounded from losses to Ateneo and National U for 2-2 record, while fellow freshman Vea Malarde added 15 points.

“We had a good start and the good thing is our rookies have the confidence to play defense and get their rhythm,” said La Salle head coach Cholo Villanueva. “Coming off a tough loss [to Ateneo] last game, the experienced we gained there helped us a lot.”

La Salle put up a 26-16 lead at the end of the first quarter and never looked back, reaching a peak of 35 points several times during the fourth period.

Tin Cortizano had 15 points and 11 rebounds while Princess Pedregosa added 13 points and 18 rebounds but their double-doubles weren’t enough as the Red Warriors dropped to 0-4.

Meanwhile, Far Eastern University grounded Ateneo, 79-64, for its second win in three games.

The Lady Tamaraws went on a 21-2 run for a 59-47 lead heading into the fourth,  giving them the momentum to finish off the Lady Eagles.

Clare Castro led FEU with 18 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks while Choy Bahuyan added 15 points and seven boards.

Joanne Nimes led the Lady Eagles with 15 points as they dropped to 2-2.