UAAP: FEU-D claims twice-to-beat edge after rout of Ateneo in HS basketball

Far Eastern University-Diliman secured the No. 2 seed and the twice-to-beat advantage after routing Ateneo de Manila University, 111-73, in the UAAP Season 88 boys basketball tournament playoff on Wednesday at the Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City.

The victory gave the Baby Tamaraws their first win over Ateneo this season after dropping both of their elimination round meetings, 90-71 in the first round and 86-82 in overtime last Sunday.

“It’s really important kasi if we fall 0-3 against Ateneo, medyo mahirap na ma-convince ang players that we can beat them,” said FEU-D head coach Mike Reyes.

Cabs Cabonilas powered the Baby Tamaraws with 28 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, four steals, and three blocks. Dwayne Enriquez added 19 points, while JB Cagurungan chipped in 13 markers.

The win spoiled a massive performance from Ateneo’s Jude Eriobu, who finished with 35 points and 16 rebounds for the Blue Eagles.

The two squads will meet again in the Final Four on Sunday morning, while National University Nazareth School will face De La Salle Zobel in the other semifinal pairing.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News