UST Tigresses force Game 3 vs NU Lady Bulldogs in UAAP finals

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigresses forced a Game 3 in the UAAP Season 88 women's basketball finals by defeating the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs, 95-70, in Game 2.

This is the third consecutive finals series between UST and NU that will go to a deciding Game 3.

UST dominated Game 2 with a wire-to-wire victory, including a 20-5 start and holding their largest lead at 87-56.

Four Tigresses scored in double digits, led by Karylle Sierba with 17 points, while Rachelle Ambos and Coi Danganan were instrumental in UST's early lead.

Kristine Cayabyab scored 22 points for the Lady Bulldogs, but their starters were outscored by UST's starters by a 24-point margin.

UST shot an impressive 43.3% from the three-point line, making 13 threes.

The Growling Tigresses aim to reclaim the championship they lost last year, while the Lady Bulldogs seek to defend it and win their ninth title in ten seasons on Sunday.

UST head coach Haydee Ong credited the team's relentless defense from start to finish for their Game 2 win.