UAAP: UST outlasts FEU to snap two-game losing streak

The University of Santo Tomas scored a big victory against tournament leaders Far Eastern University, 81-69, Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Refusing to let lightning strike twice, the Growling Tigers made sure to come out as victors in the clutch this time around, improving to an even 3-3 win-loss record as the first round nears its conclusion.

Veteran Mark Llemit stabilized his team’s offense during its steady comeback, ultimately finishing with a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds to go along with six assists.

Rookie Andrew Chio and center Collins Akowe steadily followed suit with 14 points each, with the latter exemplifying his dominance in the painted area, grabbing a game-high 19 rebounds.

Only scoring 27 points in the first two quarters, resulting in a 13-point deficit at the half, the España-based squad unleashed a furious offensive run after the intermission, scoring 29 points in the third quarter alone to obtain the lead, 57-50.

Despite FEU swiftly replying with a 12-3 run to start the final canto, it would be the Growling Tigers who would have the last say, closing out the game with 12 unanswered points, 81-69.

Meanwhile, the Tamaraws suffered its first loss since opening day. Sean Chambers’ men aim to quickly get back on track when it faces National University on October 17 at its Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Mo Konateh produced 18 points, 15 boards, and three blocks, while Jorick Bautista and Kirby Mongcopa chipped in 14 and 12 points respectively.

Scores:

UST 81 – Llemit 18, Akowe 14, Chio 14, Acido 12, Jumawan 8, Canete 7, Buenaflor 6, Porter 2, Danting 0, Esteban 0.

FEU 69 – Konateh 18, Bautists 14, Mongcopa 12, Felipe 9, Pasaol 6, Daa 4, Cabonilas 3, Nakai 3, Gish 0, Burgos 0.

Quarters: 12-20, 28-41, 57-50, 81-69.

—JKC, GMA News