Tamaraws pull away from Red Warriors to stay in UAAP semis race

MANILA, Philippines — Far Eastern University breathed life into its UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final Four hopes after keeping University of the East at bay, 84-77, in a crucial victory Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Tamaraws are now within striking distance from a coveted Final Four spot, rising to 6-7, tied with fifth-seeded Adamson. Both teams are just behind number four La Salle (6-6).

The Red Warriors, on the other hand, finished the season winless through 14 games, as they lost their 19th straight contest dating to last season.

Jorick Bautista led five FEU players in double figures with 17 points, six assists and three rebounds. Mo Konateh chipped in 15 markers and eight boards, while rookie Kirby Mongcopa had 14 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block.

The Morayta-based squad led by as much as 16 points, 41-25, in the second quarter after a triple by Neil Owens.

UE, however, showed signs of life with a 15-3 run capped by a split from the line by Nico Mulingtapang, 40-44.

The Tamaraws then recovered and took a 13-point lead, 71-58, with 6:10 remaining after a Kirby Mongcopa jumper.

The Red Warriors went down swinging, slicing the deficit to just five, 77-82, after a dunk by Precious Momowei.

And while FEU had a shot clock violation on the other end, UE had a chance to inch closer, but Dray Caoile’s triple missed.

A pair of free throws by Jorick Bautista iced the game for FEU.

Janrey Pasaol filled up the statsheet with 12 points, six assists and four steals for the Tamaraws, while Owens had 10 markers.

Momowei stood tall for UE with 19 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, an assist and a block, while Wello Lingolingo had 14 markers. Caoile and Nico Mulingtapang had 10 apiece.

FEU, which has won two straight games, will try to further rise up in the standings as it faces University of Santo Tomas in its last elims game.

• Latest
• Trending