Reigning champion University of Santo Tomas bucked the absence of head coach Haydee Ong to overpower Far Eastern University, 95-48, and clinch a spot in the UAAP Season 89 Women’s Basketball Final Four on Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The victory secured the Growling Tigresses’ eighth consecutive Final Four appearance, dating back to Season 80 in 2017.
Despite missing Ong, who served a one-game suspension after incurring her third infraction of the season in their previous game against De La Salle University, UST continued its dominant run, improving to an immaculate 10-0 record and strengthening its hold on the top spot in the standings.
“We’re not quite there yet, still a work in progress, but slowly we’re reaping some of the seeds that we’ve already planted. It was a long way, but we’re very thankful for UST’s administration, kina Father Rodel (Cansancio), for the support, for the patience,” said assistant coach Sen Dysangco.
(C) UAAP Season 89 Media Team
Behind a monster first half from Oma Onianwa, the Tigresses took control early and built a commanding lead.
The Nigerian big finished the opening half with 23 points alone, powering UST to a 53-27 advantage after her layup with 1:19 remaining in the second quarter.
The Tigresses showed no signs of slowing down after the break, continuing to pile on the points and eventually stretching their lead to 47. A free throw from Grachelle Boteros with 40 seconds left put the finishing touches on the 95-48 rout.
Onianwa finished with 25 points, seven rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. Karylle Sierba added 13 points off the bench, while Brig Santos chipped in 12.
UST looks to extend its winning streak when it takes on University of the East on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Big Dome.
(C) UAAP Season 89 Media Team
Victoria Pasilang led FEU with 20 points and nine rebounds, while Amyah Espanol contributed 13 points.
The Lady Tamaraws fell to 6-5 but remained in fourth place in the standings.
FEU will look to bounce back against University of the Philippines on Saturday at 12 p.m.
The Scores:
UST (95) – Onianwa 25, Sierba 13, Santos 12, Maglupay 9, Boteros 9, Pescador 7, C. Danganan 7, Ambos 6, Dajao 3, McAlary 2, Wemceslao 2, Bron 0, Relliquette 0, K. Danganan 0, Tate 0
FEU (48) – Pasilang 20, Espanol 13, Patio 10, Lopez 3, Dela Torre 2, Ellorimo 0, Manguiat 0, Gavaran 0, Agcambot 0, Quinte 0, Escarez 0, Salvani 0, Peje 0, Kant 0
Quarterscores: 34-12, 53-29, 76-39, 95-48
