The FEU Tamaraws continued their strong run in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament after dismantling the UP Fighting Maroons, 90-79, at the PhilSports Arena.
After dropping their opening game of the season, FEU has now won three straight, with its latest victory coming against a UP side that entered the game on a two-game winning streak.
FEU Starts Strong
The Tamaraws came out firing, building a 13-point lead, 26-13, in the first quarter. The Fighting Maroons responded in the second period, trimming the deficit to just two, 41-43, heading into halftime.
FEU regained control after the break, erupting for 32 points while limiting UP to just 14 in the third quarter to take a commanding 75-55 lead.
The Tamaraws maintained their advantage in the final frame to secure the win and hand the Fighting Maroons their second consecutive loss.
“We’re just so grateful to be at this moment… Going to year three, we knew there was a season of tremendous improvement, and guys were just basically trusting one another, playing off one another, and they’re one with the system and playing on a high level,” said FEU head coach Sean Chambers.
Multiple Tamaraws Step Up
Kirby Mongcopa led all scorers with 24 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. Jorick Bautista added 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Janrey Pasaol contributed 15 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Cabs Cabonillas finished with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Mo Konateh chipped in 10 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block.
For the Fighting Maroons, Veejay Pre led the way with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Francis Nnoruka added 14 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, while Noy Remogat finished with 12 points.
The Tamaraws will next face fellow league leader Ateneo Blue Eagles on Saturday, October 10, at 5:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons will take on defending champions La Salle Green Archers on Sunday, October 11, at 5:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
