By Aimerose C. Atienza

Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraw Josee Kaputu delivered 27 points in their season opener win against De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Archers, 75-68, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 women’s basketball tourney at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City today, October 1.

Kaputu led the Lady Tams producing three assists and nine rebounds. 

The green-and-gold reps gained early momentum as they scored eight straight points in less than two minutes, 8-0, with Queenie Aquino producing five points and Jamerin Delos Santos’ shooting from beyond the arc.

FEU challenged La Salle’s run and jump defense as they pulled away and closed the first quarter at 24-15.

Kaputu’s 17-point outing during the second quarter extended their lead by 15 points in the middle of the second quarter, 40-25, while they closed halftime with a nine-point lead, 42-33.

In a post-game interview with FEU Advocate, FEU head coach Bert Flores stressed on the importance of getting the season’s first win for a boost of morale.

“Kailangan talaga [namin] mamuhunan ng first round eh kasi sa second round, andu’n na ‘yung scouting talaga eh, ma-checheck nila si Josee (We really need to invest in the first round because in the second round, the scouting is there, they will check upon Josee),” he said.

It was a back-and-forth affair for both teams during the second half with FEU and DLSU exchanging three-point shots and elbow jumpers.

FEU’s six straight points in the paint during the fourth quarter sealed the victory against  Lady Archers, 75-68, claiming a 1-0 win-loss record.

During the post-game conference, Lady Tam reinforcement Kaputu cited that she looked forward to their improvements as a team with the help of their coaches.

“I hope we do our best like today, the best like today. We will improve a lot [as] the coaches teach us. And we will do everything the coaches teach us, and tell us to do,” she stated.

The Morayta-based squad will next face the defending champions National University Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday, October 4, at the Adamson University Gym in Manila City.

(Photo by Justine Jaerigg/FEU Advocate)