Tiger's Presence Over Blue Eagles

Lsst night, the UST Growling Tigers made a strong presence felt at the Cuneta Astrodome as they defeated the Ateneo Blue Eagles.

The Tigers ended the first round of the 70th edition of UAAP with a landslide 87-74 win over the Blue Eagles. It was the first time in three years that Ateneo lost back-to-back games, losing to FEU Tamaraws and UST Tigers.

The Tigers started to leave the Blue Eagles behind with an 18-2 run for an 80-63 lead with with 4:17 left.
All Star Jervy Cruz and 6-4 rookie forward, Khasim Mirza, played big roles for this victory. Of course, it was still a total team effort under the leadership and mentorship of Coach Pido Jarencio. Mirza in 28 minutes of action had 25 points and five rebounds. Jervy Cruz backed him with 19 points and 21 boards in a 34-minute stint.

Chief observes that Jarencio’s style is “hand-holding” the players. Not applying much pressure but rather letting the players enjoy the game. “He is more a motivational coach,” says Chief

Dad Gabutina texted Chief after the game saying, “Tinalo ang eagles ng tigers.”

Here are the box scores:

UST 87 — Mirza 25, Cruz 19, Ababou 10, Canlas 9, Espiritu 7, Gile 6, Cuan 5, Cortez 3, Allera 2, Dizon 1,Scott 0, Badua 0, Taylor 0.

ATENEO 74 — Salamat 15, Laterre 13, Nkemakolam 10, Tiu 9, Baclao 8, Long 6, Reyes 6, Baldos 2, Barracoso 2, Al-Hussaini 2, Arao 1.

Sorry, Cesar, your team lost.