UST beats Ateneo, secures twice-to-beat chance

UST Growling Tigresses improved their chances of securing a twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 86 Women's Basketball Tournament with a victory over Ateneo on Saturday, winning 80-68.

Nikki Villasin led UST with a career-high 20 points and contributed two assists, rebounds, and steals.

Eka Soriano added a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Kent Pastrana chipped in 12 points, seven rebounds, and six steals.

UST's victory moves them to 11-3 in the elimination round, securing at least one playoff game for a twice-to-beat incentive.

The team outscored Ateneo by 23-10 in the third quarter, leading by as much as 23 points before closing the gap late in the game.

Prior to this win, UST defeated FEU on Wednesday, maintaining their strong performance and securing second place behind National University.