Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The UST Growling Tigers outclassed the De La Salle Green Archers with a strong second half to take home a 77-61 victory in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) on Wednesday (September 30) at the Mall of Asia Arena.
UST is tied with FE U Tamaraws atop the heap with a superior 5-1 win-loss records, while La Salle slid to 3-3.
Despite early foul trouble, Kevin Ferrer managed to lead UST with 17 points and six rebounds.
The Archers found their rhythm early in the game and led by as much as 14, but it was only a matter of time before UST would shift into high gear.
A 12-0 UST run to end the second quarter that trimmed the lead to 33-31 at the half turned out to be a sign of things to come.
The Growling Tigers went on a tear in the second half, outscoring the Green Archers 29-13 in the third quarter alone on the way to an easy 77-61 scalp.
According to UST coach Bong Dela Cruz, it was defense that helped his side overcome the Archers’ double digit advantage.
“In-execute lang namin ang game plan namin sa defense and nag follow lang ang offense namin,” said Dela Cruz.
Jeron Teng paced La Salle with 13 markers and nine rebounds.
UST will play its final game of the first round against UE Red Warriors on October 7, while the La Salle Green Archers will look to end the round on a winning note against arch-rivals Ateneo on Sunday (October 4).
