Green Archers destroy hapless Tigers

(MVP Ben Mbala attempting a layup. Photo from Spin.ph)

The De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers demolished the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, 115-86, at the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 80 Men’s Basketball Tournament, on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Green Archers dominated right from the start, cruising to a wire-to-wire win, scoring 30 points in three quarters while limiting UST to 21 points.

DLSU took advantage of the Tigers’ 35 turnovers turning them into 37 turnover points.

Reigning MVP Ben Mbala led La Salle with 29 points, nine rebounds, two steals, and three blocks, while Santi Santillan added 13 markers, four boards, and four dishes in 15 minutes.

Steve Akomo’s 15 points and 13 caroms, his best game in a UST uniform, went for naught as the Tigers did not manage to get its first win of the season.

DLSU’s 29-point win and 52.66% field goal percentage are the highest recorded this season.

DLSU improved to a 4-1 card, while the struggling Tigers remained winless in six games, their worst start in the final four era.

DLSU Green Archers will next face UE Red Warriors on October 4 at the Big Dome, while UST Growling Tigers will try to get their first win against the winless Warriors on October 7 at the Mall of Asia arena. SHAYLA RAE ROMERO