By: Francis Deungria

What’s obvious?

UST has long had a PG problem, and it seems now, UST will have PG that will be a problem to the rest of the UAAP with the reemergence of Forthsky Padrigao. The new Growling Tiger had a great debut leading UST as a playmaker. Mo Tounkara, the new FSA for UST also looks promising with an impressive performance against one of the best UAAP FSAs, Precious Momowei. Tounkara should settle well into his role at the center position which UST lacked last season.

But what’s probably the most exciting for the program is the quality of wings they now have in their rotation. With Cabañero leading the helm, he now has legitimate help with the improved offensive play of Mark Llemit. Their rotation at the Power Forward position also saw improvement as Manaytay now shares minutes with Crisostomo. Both players will be crucial as UST competes with contenders especially against the tall players of UP and DLSU.

What’s the expectation?

The revamped UST Growling tigers will heavily bank on Kyle Paranada. Although he had a subpar production, he looked good running the bench unit as the backup to Padrigao. He should find his rhythm offensively and will be a crucial player moving forward as UST tries to reach the Final Four for the first time since 2015.

The best case scenario

The best version for this squad should be Nic and Forth maintaining their excellent form, and Mark Llemit realizing his potential as a second or third scoring option. Crisostomo and Manaytay will also be crucial, especially on the defensive end. Kyle will also have to step up as the leader of UST’s bench unit.

Projection

On paper, this UST team looks like a borderline Final Four team, the same tier with NU. While they did showcase their class against UE, their games against La Salle and UP would be the litmus test whether they have what it takes to really contend for a championship.