UST dominates UE in women's basketball opener

University of Santo Tomas secured a dominant 86-44 victory over University of the East in their UAAP Season 87 women's basketball tournament opener on Sunday morning at the Araneta Coliseum.

Karylle Sierba, making her collegiate debut, led UST with 18 points and contributed four rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

Rachelle Ambos nearly recorded a triple-double with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and eight steals, emphasizing the importance of stepping up after key players like Tantoy Ferrer left the team.

UST improved their performance in the second half, outscoring UE by 41-24 to extend their lead significantly.

Coach Haydee Ong noted that while her team must correct ball-handling issues, UST will face Ateneo Blue Eagles on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., with University of the East aiming to end its 38-game losing streak against UP Fighting Maroons this Saturday.