Tigers eye 5-2 record to close out Round One

MANILA, Philippines — Santo Tomas collides with slumping La Salle in a mission to get a good run going and fortify hold of third spot heading into the second round of the 82nd UAAP men’s basketball tournament at the MOA Arena in Pasay today.

Sporting a 4-2 card, the Growling Tigers play the Green Archers (2-4) at 2 p.m. also looking to remain within striking distance of leaders Ateneo (6-0) and UP (5-1).

At fourth place with a 3-3 slate, Adamson also shoots for a crucial victory against FEU (2-4) in their battle at 4 p.m.

After a meltdown loss against Adamson last week, the Tigers vented their ire on the Tamaraws with a huge 82-74 win last Sunday in Antipolo to be at a position they need to be entering the second round, according to coach Aldin Ayo.

“They responded to the challenge that they had to show up. We are very conscious with the standing. As early as now, we’re trying to win games that we can and of course, compete because we don’t want to be the one catching up in the second round,” said the UST mentor.

Ayo’s rookie-laden team has been a revelation with its strong showing behind favorites Blue Eagles and Fighting Maroons. 

With super-rookies Mark Nonoy, Soulemane Chabi Yo and Rhenz Abando at helm together with veterans Renzo Subido and Brent Paraiso, Ayo expects nothing different in their approach against a hungry La Salle squad coming off a painful loss against UP Wednesday.  

“I always tell the players that we still hold our own steering wheel right now. We don’t want to pray for other teams’ wins and losses in the second round to determine our fate. We want to be in control,” Ayo said.