Kent Pastrana and the UST Tigressses during Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 women’s basketball Finals.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Kent Pastrana is looking for redemption as she returns to play one more year for the University of Santo Tomas after a shattered title defense in the UAAP Season 87 women’s basketball tournament.
Two weeks ago, Pastrana couldn’t hide her frustrations after UST’s title reign was ended by National University, which returned to the top with a 78-73 win in Finals Game 3 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The UST star, who was limited to seven points but had seven rebounds and seven assists in the winner-take-all, was quick to declare her intention to return.
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“Of course, I’ll come back for Coach Haydee [Ong] because there’s still something I want to fulfill and prove to myself,” said an emotional Pastrana. “To the people who don’t believe in me, I want to show them what UST is all about. I want to bounce back next year.”
Losing the title they gained last year after ending the seven-year reign of NU was a tough pill to swallow for the UAAP mythical team member, who is the runner-up to MVP Kacey Dela Rosa.
“I can’t accept the loss, especially since I promised Tacky [Tacatac] that I’d give her a memorable exit. But I’m so proud of her, as in, so proud of all of them. Even though they’re rookies and we were the underdogs, they showed their courage in fighting for UST,” said Pastrana. “That’s why I’m so thankful to my teammates and coaches for fighting until the end.”
READ: UAAP: Kent Pastrana struggles but still leads UST past Ateneo
UST coach Haydee Ong, though, urged Pastrana and the Growling Tigresses to remain proud of their journey despite the bridesmaid finish as she still considers it a great Season 87 for the team.
“Looking forward to next season, there’s lots of possibilities and opportunities for us to come back stronger,” said Ong.
Pastrana will be leading a young UST squad bannered by Brigette Santos and Karylle Sierba next year, banking on their strong bond to reclaim what they lost this 2024.
“Given everything we’ve been through this year, we made each other feel that we’re united. We made it feel like we’re a family within the team, not just teammates,” said Pastrana. “It’s such a great feeling knowing they’re always there to support you, win or lose, motivating you all the way.”