UST defeats Ateneo for the first time after nine years

After nine years, the University of Santo Tomas finally won against Ateneo de Manila University.

The Growling Tigers took down the Blue Eagles, 74-64, in their first round encounter in UAAP Season 87 on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The España-based squad relied on a strong second half as it outscored their opponents, 37-23 after trailing 41-37 at the end of the first half.

Mo Tounkara had 16 points, 14 rebounds, two assists, a steal, and a block, while Gelo Crisostomo also posted a double-double of 16 points, 10 rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block. 

Josh Lazaro led the blue-and-white squad with 18 points and 10 boards, on top of four assists, a steal, and a block, while Shawn Tuano and Kristian Porter chipped in 13 and 10 points, respectively.

With the win, UST went up 2-0 while Ateneo remained winless in two games as they also lost to University of the Philippines in the season opener.

UST last won against Ateneo in September 26, 2015 where the Tigers won, 68-58.

Earlier, De La Salle University also notched its second win in as many games as it dominated Adamson University (1-1), 82-52.

Kevin Quiambao had 21 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block while rookie Doy Dungo shone with 15 points. Henry Agunnane had 16 rebounds, 11 points, an assist, and a steal.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News