Padrigao shines in homecoming as UST edges Ateneo in triple OT

Returning to his old home at the Blue Eagle Gym, Forthsky Padrigao made sure his emotions wouldn’t get in the way of business. 

The University of Santo Tomas guard showed poise and maturity in leading the Growling Tigers to a hard-earned 98–89 triple-overtime win over the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Facing his former school for the first time since transferring, Padrigao approached the game with calm determination. “I just needed to do my job and role with the team. Nothing personal for me. I treated this game as a regular game. I didn’t do anything special coming into the game,” said the UST guard, who previously played two seasons with Ateneo and captured a UAAP title in Season 85.

Despite the emotional backdrop, Padrigao was met with respect rather than hostility. “I wasn’t expecting any boos. I have good friends here in Ateneo. They watched, they even asked for tickets from me,” he shared.

As a sign of respect, Padrigao briefly knelt and touched the Ateneo center court, marking his gratitude to the program that once helped shape his career.

The graduating guard was instrumental in UST’s thrilling triumph, finishing with 20 points and sinking a crucial three-pointer with 39.9 seconds left in regulation to force overtime. 

The triple-overtime showdown, the first of its kind in the Final Four era, saw UST unleash a decisive 13–2 run in the third extra period to seal their fourth win in five outings. 

Nic Cabanero powered through with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while rookie Collins Akowe impressed with a near 20-20 outing of 20 markers, 19 boards, three steals, and three blocks. Gelo Crisostomo also delivered his best game yet, tallying 18 points and 17 rebounds to complete the balanced UST attack.

With the victory, UST continues its strong campaign under new leadership, proving that heart and composure can outlast even the longest battles.