Tamaraws gore winless Tigers
THE FAR Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws thwarted the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers from getting a victory, 78-65, after their Saturday showdown in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Tamaraws were able to bounce back, after their sluggish first half with a 13-point lead against the Growling Tigers.
Prince Orizu's flu was considered a reason by Tamaraws when they fell by as much as 10 points in the first half.
“It was a good win for us. 'Yung first half namin medyo flat. Siguro namiss namin yung presence ni Prince, kasi may sakit siya,” said Tamaraw Arvin Tolentino in a post-game interview.
Orizu generated five points and four rebounds in his 18- minute playing time.
Well-rounded FEU came out of the dugout in the second half, while Tolentino opened the final frame with back-to-back triples, gaining a 14-0 run.
“Sobrang lamya namin nung first half kaya hindi kami makakuha ng good offense,” FEU team captain Ron Dennison admitted.
“Sabi ni coach kailangan ng urgency to turn defense into offense,” he added.
The Tamaraws has now a 2-2 win-loss card, while UST is still at a 0-4 record.
Tolentino showed a spectacular double-double performance, 15 points and 10 rebounds, leading the Tamaraws to another win.
Growling Tiger Jeepy Faundo led the team with 15 markers and 11 rebounds while Jordan Sta. Ana averaged with 11 points. However, UST committed 24 turnovers that led to their loss.
The Tamaraws will be facing the National University Bulldogs on Wednesday at 2 p.m.. while UST will try to end its losing streak in their game against the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles at 4 p.m.
Both games will be held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Ma. Angelica D. Garcia
Box scores:
FEU 78 – Dennison 15, Tolentino 15, Parker 8, Tuffin 8, Ebona 6, Inigo 6, Comboy 5, Orizu 5, Ramirez 5, Escoto 3, Stockton 2, Cani 0, Trinidad 0, Nunag 0, Bayquin 0.
UST 65 – Faundo 16, Sta. Ana 11, Basibas 8, Escalambre 8, Akomo 6, Huang 4, Lee 3, De Guzman 3, Macasaet 2, Arana 2, Kwawukumey 2, Garcia 0, Caunan 0, Soriano 0.
Quarterscores: 11-16, 31-36, 49-48, 78-65.