La Salle, Santo Tomas cagebelles prevail

Defending champion De La Salle University whipped University of the Philippines, 66-31, to stay unbeaten in the UAAP Season 77 women’s basketball at Blue Eagle Gym yesterday.

The Lady Archers were merciless after erecting a 17-7 advantage at the end of the first period, leading by as much as 36 points to extend their perfect run to three games.

Alyanna Ong had 11 points, seven rebounds and four assists while Steph Vergara chipped in 10 points for the Lady Archers.

De La Salle took the solo lead after University of Santo Tomas gave Ateneo its first loss of the season, a 55-54 decision, also yesterday.

Mariella Isanan scored the game-winning drive in the last 15.7 seconds and the Lady Eagles failed to score in their last play as Sara Bo-ot bungled a layup.

Jen Angeles led the Tigresses with 14 points, Maica Cortes had a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds, while Kim Reyes had 10.

Claire Aseron fired 13 points while Hazelle Yam added 11 points for Ateneo, which struggled after six-foot Danica Jose got into early  foul trouble.

Trailing 41-49 in the payoff period, the Lady Eagles grabbed a 54-53 lead after Jose, who finished with eight points and eight rebounds, nailed two free throws off a Reyes foul with 22.9 ticks remaining.

The first match between University of the East and National University was called off because of the slippery court.

The Lady Bulldogs (2-0) were leading the Lady Warriors (1-1), 6-3, when play was stopped.