The UST Growling Tigers returned to the UAAP Final Four for the first time in years, proving that their rebuilding efforts are finally paying off. With a balanced mix of veteran leadership and promising new faces, the team secured a respectable 7-7 record in the elimination round, finishing third overall.
Their Final Four run, however, was cut short by the eventual champions, the UP Fighting Maroons. Despite the twice-to-win disadvantage, the Tigers fought hard, showcasing their resilience and growth as a unit. Leading the charge was Nic Cabanero, whose stellar performances earned him a well-deserved spot in the UAAP Mythical Five.
UST GROWLING TIGERS
SEASON 87 IN REVIEW:
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FINAL RANK | FINAL FOUR
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ELIMINATION ROUND | 7-7 (3 OF 8)
FINAL FOUR | LOST TO UP (TWICE-TO-WIN)
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AWARDS
MYTHICAL FIVE | NIC CABANERO
Cabanero continued to be the Tigers' primary scorer, averaging 16.0 points per game while also contributing on the boards. Mo Tounkara provided a strong inside presence, averaging a double-double with 13.43 points and 10.07 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Forthsky Padrigao took charge of playmaking duties, averaging an impressive 5.87 assists per contest.
Despite their early playoff exit, UST’s performance this season signals a positive trajectory for the program. With key players gaining valuable experience and young talents stepping up, the Growling Tigers are poised to be a serious contender in future UAAP seasons.
As the team prepares for Season 88, the focus will be on strengthening their depth and refining their system. If they can build on this year’s success and add a few more key pieces, UST could make an even deeper playoff run next season. The Tigers are roaring back, and the rest of the UAAP should take notice.