UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas rode a third-quarter storm to take down league-leading Far Eastern University, 81-69, in UAAP Season 89 on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Growling Tigers turned a three-point halftime deficit into a commanding lead, outscoring the Tamaraws, 29-9, in the third period to take control of the contest.
Mark Llemit and Collins Akowe expectedly led the charge, with Llemit posting 18 points and 11 rebounds and Akowe finishing with 14 points and 19 boards.
Former Gilas Pilipinas Youth standout Andrew Chio provided the surprise punch with 14 points, as Amiel Acido chipped in 12.
The victory allowed UST to bounce back from consecutive losses and improve to 3-4 in the standings.
“Sinasabi rin sa amin ng mga coaches na kung individual game lang ang lalaruin namin at para sa sarili lang kami, hindi kami mananalo,” Llemit said.
“Thankful ako sa mga teammates ko dahil nag-adjust kami pagdating ng third quarter at nag-step up silang lahat.”
Not even a routine 18-point, 15-rebound outing from Mo Konateh could steady FEU, as Jorick Bautista managed just 14 points and Kirby Mongcopa was held to 12.
The Tams saw their four-game winning streak come to an end, halting a run highlighted by back-to-back victories over champion sides La Salle and the University of the Philippines.
The Scores:
UST 81 – Llemit 18, Akowe 14, Chio 14, Acido 12, Jumawan 8, Cañete 7, Buenaflor 6, Porter 2, Danting 0, Esteban 0.
FEU 69 – Konateh 18, Bautista 14, Mongcopa 12, Felipe 9, Pasaol 6, Daa 4, Cabonillas 3, Nakai 3, Gish 0, Burgos 0.
Quarters: 12-20, 28-41, 57-50, 81-69.
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