Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 30) — After suffering their first setback in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 80 against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, the De La Salle University Green Archers made a statement in their next game.
The Green Archers annihilated the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, 115-86, on Saturday afternoon at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Ben Mbala produced 29 points shooting 50 percent from the field and nine rebounds for La Salle.
The Green Archers’ bench facilitated a high-octane offense that carried them to a nine-point advantage at the of the opening period.
The Growling Tigers had a couple of easy baskets to get their confidence going, but La Salle’s uptempo style of play resulted in a 60-42 lead heading into the halftime break.
UST had a difficult time stopping the Green Archers’ offensive onslaught in the ensuing quarter.
With a comfortable cushion on its side, La Salle was able to distribute the scoring well among 12 of its players.
Spitfire guard Aljun Melecio did not suit up for the Green Archers due to an infection.
Andrei Caracut contributed 14 points, while Santi Santillian chipped in 13 points for La Salle who grabbed the second spot in the team standings with a 4-1 slate.
Wendell De Guzman scored 18 markers and dished out four assists for the Growling Tigers who remained winless after six outings.
The Green Archers will next tackle the University of the East Red Warriors on October 4, while UST will also go up against the Red Warriors on October 7.
