Padrigao insists on a win, says trying hard is not enough
It was a crucial time for the UST Growling Tigers. After struggling during the first half of the game, they had the chance to take the lead from the DLSU Green Archers and score their most impressive triumph of UAAP Season 87.
They were down by one point, and it was team leader Forth Padrigao’s time to make two freebies. The first shot went in, sending the entire UST crowd roaring in excitement. The game was tied at 80-all, and everybody held their breaths as the ball flew for the second free throw.
Padrigao missed.
“I lost confidence after my first shot. Wala eh, namintis ko talaga ‘yong pangalawa eh,” Padrigao reminisced after the game, which was won by the defending champions De La Salle in overtime.
The loss dropped UST to 4-5 in the season despite two consecutive encouraging performances against UP and La Salle, the title favorites.
The outcome may not have been what the team wanted, but Padrigao shared that he loved how the team played through the game. DLSU had the biggest lead in the first half at 20 points, but UST gave their everything to tie the tightly-fought battle and force an extension.
Mo Tounkara was out of the game because of his five personal fouls. He is also suspended for their next game against Ateneo, which will be tough as the Blue Eagles will enter with momentum following their impressive win against NU.
The Growling Tigers inarguably gave everybody a good game and handed DLSU a struggle. But it’s not enough, as that is not their end goal.
“It’s a good thing na lumaban kami, pero it’s not enough eh. Nasa second round na rin tayo, and ‘di na enough na lumaban lang kami. We really need those wins, kasi ang goal naman talaga namin is Final Four.”
Padrigao recorded 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Nic Cabanero registered a double-double with 23 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. Tounkara also helped the team greatly with 14 points and 8 rebounds before getting ejected.
“I’m happy naman with the team, but then again, kailangan namin manalo,” Padrigao said.
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