UST ends 16-game loss streak to La Salle, stays perfect in UAAP Season 88

The UST Growling Tigers secured a significant 93-84 comeback victory over the La Salle Green Archers in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum on Saturday, September 27. This win ended a 16-game losing streak against La Salle that had persisted since Season 78 in 2015, marking UST's first triumph over their rivals in almost a decade.

Key players propelled UST to victory, with team captain Nic Cabañero leading the charge by scoring a game-high 27 points. Rookie Collins Akowe delivered another strong performance with 20 points and 19 rebounds, while Amiel Acido added 13 points and Forthsky Padrigao contributed 12 points, 9 assists, and 3 steals in his season debut. This collective effort resulted in UST achieving a 2-0 start to the season for the first time since 2019.

The game featured a dramatic turnaround, as UST overcame a 12-point deficit in the third quarter by closing the period with a 16-6 run. After a tight fourth quarter, UST's Kyle Paranada initiated a crucial 6-0 rally to secure the lead, and Akowe's late baskets sealed the win. UST assistant coach Peter Martin highlighted the team's increased confidence, noting the improvement from the previous season.