After a tumultuous five-year absence, the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers have finally reclaimed their spot in the UAAP Final Four. The journey back to basketball prominence was arduous, marked by player departures, coaching changes, and a string of disheartening losses. But with grit, determination, and a hunger to restore their roar, the Tigers have awakened a resurgent pride in the Thomasian community.
Weathering the Storm: UST’s Struggles and Rebuilding
The past three seasons were particularly challenging for the Growling Tigers. Amidst the fallout from the controversial Sorsogon bubble training during the pandemic, key players like Rhenz Abando and CJ Cansino left the program, creating a significant void in talent and leadership. Head coach Aldin Ayo faced suspension, further hindering recruitment efforts and setting the team back.
UST’s on-court performance reflected these difficulties, as they struggled to a dismal 6-36 record across three seasons, including a demoralizing 19-game losing streak. But the tides began to turn with the return of a familiar face and the support of a dedicated alumnus.
The Return of Pido Jarencio and Alfrancis Chua’s Vision
Pido Jarencio, the architect of UST’s last championship in 2006, made his triumphant return as head coach after a decade away. Joined by a successful staff from Letran and the unwavering support of SMC sports director and UST alumnus Alfrancis Chua, Jarencio set out to restore the Tigers to their former glory.
I promised [our] rector and the priests that I’m going to bring them to the Final Four.
Alfrancis Chua on his vision for UST basketball
New Faces, Renewed Hope
UST bolstered its roster with standout recruits for Season 87, including former Ateneo guard Forthsky Padrigao, ex-UE stalwart Kyle Paranada, NCAA juniors’ MVP Amiel Acido, and new foreign student-athlete Mo Tounkara. While the team lacked experience, their improved lineup made them strong contenders for a Final Four spot.
Rising to the Challenge
The path to the postseason was not without obstacles. UST struggled defensively, allowing the third-highest points per possession on pick-and-rolls. Offensively, despite boasting the best offensive rating in the eliminations, frequent lineup experimentation and Tounkara’s one-game suspension disrupted their rhythm.
Facing a do-or-die situation in their final two games, the Tigers rose to the occasion. Nic Cabañero, a beacon of hope during UST’s darkest years, delivered a season-best 33-point performance against UE. In their crucial matchup with Adamson, a dominant 23-4 third-quarter run punched their ticket to the Final Four as the third seed.
Sobrang saya ko kasi nandyan ‘yung buong UST community, teammates, and coaches to support me ever since.
Nic Cabañero on the support from the UST community
The Road Ahead
UST’s return to the Final Four is a significant achievement, but their journey is far from over. They now face the daunting task of needing to beat the UP Fighting Maroons twice to reach the championship round. While they may no longer have the heroics of Renzo Subido from their last Final Four appearance, the Tigers remain hungry and determined to bring the crown back to España.
Hindi natatapos dito kasi we still have a goal to make the championship [round] and mabalik ang korona sa España.
Nic Cabañero on UST’s ultimate goal
As they embrace the underdog role, the Growling Tigers’ grit and resilience may just be the key to pulling off a stunning upset. In the words of Alfrancis Chua, “Tignan natin, baka makapuwing tayo.” (Let’s see, maybe we can catch them by surprise.)
The UST Growling Tigers have proven that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to rise from the ashes and reclaim a place among the UAAP’s elite. With a community rallying behind them and a hunger to restore their legacy, the Tigers’ roar echoes once again, ready to shake the foundations of college basketball in the Philippines.
