THE UST Growling Tigers secured their second win of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament after fending off the UE Red Warriors, 98-87, on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Co-captain Mark Llemit paced UST with 22 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while Amiel Acido added 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.
UE held the lead throughout the opening quarter until Acido sparked UST’s comeback with a three-pointer and two layups to put the Growling Tigers ahead, 24-19, at the end of the frame.
UST continued to pull away in the second quarter, with Llemit taking charge offensively to extend the Tigers’ lead to 20 points, 52-32, heading into halftime.
Despite Mo Tañedo’s efforts to cut the deficit for UE, the Growling Tigers maintained their double-digit cushion throughout the third quarter, with Koji Buenaflor and Landyn Jumawan keeping UST ahead, 75-61.
The Recto-based squad, however, refused to fold as they mounted a 16-8 run halfway in the final quarter, trimming UST’s lead to six, 83-77.
Timely baskets from Collins Akowe and free throws from rookie Kurt Cañete halted UE’s attempt for a comeback, sealing UST’s 98-87 victory.
Akowe registered a double-double of 14 points and 11 boards, while rookie Jumawan chipped in 13 points.
Kristopher Lagat paced UE with 22 points, while Tañedo and Cole Cruz-Dumont added 16 and 12 markers, respectively.
This defeat marked UE’s 24th consecutive loss in the UAAP, extending the Red Warrior’s winless run.
The España-based squad look to build on their victory as they face the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Philsports Arena. F
