Archers bludgeon winless Tigers, 115-86

MANILA, Philippines — De La Salle University returned to the UAAP’s win column at the expense of University of Santo Tomas Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Coming from a massive upset dealt by University of the Philippines, the Green Archers vented their ire on the hapless Growling Tigers, 115-86.

Reigning league Most Valuable Player Ben Mbala paved the way for De La Salle. Santi Santillan capped off the relentless approach, propelling the defending champion to a second-best 4-1 card.

“I’m glad we played better defense. We were able to make them commit many turnovers that led to easy points,” Mbala shared.

"We played unselfish basketball, I think we had 26 assists," said deputy coach Miggy Solitaria.  "Sobrang aggressive namin and we pushed the pace which is what we want."

The Green Archers kept the Growling Tigers at the bottom of the standings without a win in six meetings. The rout is the most lopsided win of the season yet.  

As if De La Salle’s prowess is still in question, they did so again despite being undermanned. 

Rookie of the Year Aljun Melecio was reportedly sidelined by fever and recurring headaches.

De La Salle’s next assignment is University of the East. They are set to wrap the first round with archrival Ateneo de Manila on October 8.

The Scores:

DLSU 115 – Mbala 29, Caracut 14, Santillan 13, Rivero Prince 11, Montalbo 8, Tratter 8, Capacio 7, Go 7, Rivero Ri 7, Tero 5, Baltazar 4, Paraiso 2, Gonzales 0

UST 86 – De Guzman 18, Akomo 15, Sta. Ana 14, Lee 8, Faundo 8, Macasaet 8, Romero 4 , Kwawukumey 4, Caunan 2, Huang 2, Escalambre 2, Arana 1, Lorenzana 0, Garcia 0, Soriano 0

Quarter Scores: 30-21, 60-42, 85-63, 115-86