UST’s Tacky Tacatac in the UAAP Season 85 women’s basketball tournament. –UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — University of Santo Tomas and La Salle kicked off the return of the UAAP Season 85 women’s basketball tournament with lopsided victories over separate foes on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Tacky Tacatac fired five three-pointers to finish with 21 points as UST dominated Adamson, 106-70, to kick off its season on a high note.
Tacatac also had five rebounds, five assists, and four steals. The Tigresses, who had a 48-34 advantage at the half, pulled away in the third quarter with an 18-0 run for a 66-34 spread.
“We’re very happy and excited that women’s basketball is back in Season 85. We’re happy that we got our first win but a lot of work has to be done yet. This is just the beginning,” said UST head coach Haydee Ong.
Joylyn Pangilinan was instrumental with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting. Nikki Villasin had 15 points and six rebounds. Steph Villapando had 14 points, while Eka Soriano added 13 points, 10 boards, and seven assists.
The Lady Falcons leaned on the 29-point effort of rookie Dindy Medina, who also committed seven turnovers. Leslie Flor had 11 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
La Salle’s Fina Niantcho in the UAAP Season 85 women’s basketball tournament. –UAAP PHOTO
Meanwhile, Fina Niantcho posted 16 points and 12 rebounds as La Salle beat University of the Philippines, 73-51.
Niantcho poured 12 of her 16 points in the first half and had three steals. Luisa San Juan chipped in 12 points, while Lee Sario added nine points and eight rebounds.
“It’s a good start for us. We just wanted to execute properly during our first game. Good thing the girls responded well,” said La Salle head coach Cholo Villanueva.
The Lady Archers held the Fighting Maroons to 12-of-65 shooting from the field.
Acrissa Maw was the lone bright spot for UP with 11 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
UST and La Salle clash for second win on Wednesday, 9 a.m., at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, while UP and Adamson fight for first win at 3 p.m.