By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrense Rachelle Ambos delivered a steady all-around performance as the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigresses completed a first-round sweep with a 75-61 victory over the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The Negrense winger came through with 10 points and seven rebounds, providing the needed interior presence and hustle plays that helped UST sustain control throughout the game.

Her timely baskets and rebounding supported veteran Brigette Santos, who fired a season-high 26 points on three triples, along with six steals, two assists and a rebound.

The Tigresses overcame an off-night from usual top scorers Negrense Kent Jane Pastrana and Isioma Onianwa, who were limited to a combined six points, as Ambos and the rest of the supporting cast stepped up.

Breana Pineda added seven points, while Karylle Sierba and Ilongga Jaja Pescador chipped in six each for UST, which closed the first round of eliminations with a spotless 7-0 record.

Camille Nolasco led UP with 16 points, followed by Alex Mendoza with 12 and Marielle Vingno with 10, as the Fighting Maroons slid to 2-5.

In other results, De La Salle University (3-4) wrapped up the first round with three straight wins after edging Adamson University (2-5), 53-52, behind Zyla Lubrico’s 12 points.

Defending champion National University (6-1) also cruised past University of the East (0-7), 84-53, behind Ilongga Karl Ann Pingol’s 25 markers./ASC, WDJ