Vigil, Mariano power Tigers to win on De la Cruz’s coaching debut

MANILA, Philippines – Louie Vigil and Aljon Mariano scored the big baskets as they helped the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers give new coach Segundo “Bong” de la Cruz III a rousing debut Tuesday in the 20th Fr. Martin Summer Cup basketball tournament.

Vigil and Mariano drilled in 22 and 17 points for the Growling Tigers, who went on to flog the Diliman Computer Technology Institute (DCTI) Senators, 85-68, at the St. Placid gymnasium of the San Beda College-Manila campus in Mendiola.

The Tigers took the early lead in Group B and joined two other early winners – the National University-A Bulldogs and the San Sebastian Stags, who needed an extra period to get past the Trinity University of Asia Stallions, 84-78.

Cameroonian Willie Cambia scored two winning charities in the last 4.5 seconds, lifting the Enderun Titans to 59-58 beating of the National University-B Bulldogs.

Earvin Maravilla hit 23 points for the Titans, who picked up their first triumph in two games in Group A.

The Tigers, who played without three unavailable veterans, Kevin Ferrer, Paolo Pe and Ed Daquioag, drew 11 points in the third period from Vigil.

Vigil’s baskets allowed the Growling Tigers to move away from a 31-all halftime tie, and handed them a 10-point edge in the ensuing play.

Mariano capped the scoring run with a drive, 51-41, with 3:52 left, and the Growling Tigers never let go the lead from then on.

“The team and I are getting to know one another. It’s been a month (since I took over), and this is our first serious after so many tuneups. Our defense today clicked, and offense just followed,” said De la Cruz.

Paul Zoleta showed the way for Senators with 22 points.