MANILA – University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses leaned on a solid outing from Negrense Kent Jane Pastrana as they defeated the Adamson University Lady Falcons, 84-65, in the UAAP Season 86 women’s basketball on Wednesday at Adamson Gym.
The Silay City, Negros Occidental-native Pastrana spearheaded the Growling Tigresses with 28 points, to go with four assists and three steals as they surged to a 2-0 start in the tournament.
Growling Tigresses head coach Haydee Ong said she was not surprised by the explosive performance of Pastrana and was lucky that she has transferred to her from De La Salle University Lady Archers.
“Of course, we were expecting these types of performances from Kent. Even when she was in Silay, I knew she was special. It was God’s will to bring her to UST,” said the veteran coach.
With Pastrana leading the way, the Growling Tigresses were able to break away in the third quarter, turning a 44-40 halftime lead into a 66-51 cushion heading into the final frame.
Pastrana, a UAAP Season 82 Rookie of the Year during her time with the Lady Archers, then drilled a shot clock-beating three-pointer in the fourth quarter to extend their lead to 71-55.
Supporting Pastrana on offense were Tantoy Ferrer, who had 12 points, seven rebounds, Ilongga Ana Mae Tacatac, who ended with 12 points, and Rachelle Ambos, who contributed 10 points, seven rebounds.
The Lady Falcons, who fell to 0-2, were led by Elaine Etang and Cheska Apag, who scored 13 points apiece. Victoria Adeshina added 12 points, seven rebounds, two steals, and a block.
Up next for the Golden Tigresses this weekend is a match-up against the Lady Archers, and Pastrana does not want to pressure ahead of the game against her former school.
“Excited po ako na makaharap uli sila, pero hindi ako magpapadala sa pressure sa laro na yun. I just want to lead my team to a victory,” said Pastrana.
BOX SCORE:
UST 84 – Pastrana 28, Ferrer 12, Tacatac 12, Ambos 10, Dionisio 8, Santos 6, Soriano 3, Ly 3, Maglupay 2, Danganan 0, Serrano, 0, Amatong 0, Bron 0.
ADAMSON 65 – Etang 13, Apag 13, Adeshina 12, Padilla 11, Limbago 8, Cortez 3, Meniano 2, Dumelod 2, Agojo 1, Bajo 0, Dampios 0, Alaba 0, Tano 0.
Quarterscores: 19-19, 44-40, 66-51, 84-65.
