UAAP: UST ends three-game losing streak with narrow win over FEU

The University of Santo Tomas snapped its three-game losing streak with an 86-85 victory over Far Eastern University in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Growling Tigers held a 69-63 lead at the end of the third quarter before the Tamaraws opened the fourth period with a 9-2 run to take a 72-71 advantage. Mark Llemit answered with a basket to put UST back in front, as the España-based squad extended its lead to 78-73 early in the final frame.

The two teams then traded baskets in a tight contest, with FEU pulling within one, 83-82, after a triple from Cabs Cabonilas. Amiel Acido responded with a three-pointer of his own to give UST some breathing room in the closing moments.

The Growling Tigers held on for the victory despite a late triple from Jorick Bautista with just one second remaining.

Acido led UST with 23 points, including four three-pointers, while Landyn Jumawan added 18 points. Llemit chipped in 16 points, while Collins Akowe contributed eight points and 12 rebounds.

Bautista paced FEU with 27 points, including five triples, while Cabonilas and Kirby Mongcopa finished with 14 points apiece.

With the win, UST improved to 5-6, while FEU dropped to 6-5.

—JKC, GMA News