The FEU Tamaraws bounced back in emphatic fashion, routing the UE Red Warriors, 93‑70, in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Tamaraws took control early, building a 14‑point lead, 43‑29, at halftime. FEU continued to pile on the pressure in the second half, stretching its advantage to as much as 29 points, 88‑59, with 2:51 remaining in the game.
FEU Atones for Opening-Game Collapse
The dominant performance came after FEU suffered a collapse against the Adamson Soaring Falcons in its previous outing—something head coach Sean Chambers admitted the team had to address during the past two weeks.
“Clearly, it’s been a long two weeks and a very difficult two weeks for us. The way we had our collapse against Adamson [University] was not what we wanted,” said FEU head coach Sean Chambers.
“There’s a tough conversation with the players and the staff… But our focus now is gonna be so much more on the process. We’re gonna focus on doing things the right way, and the winning will take care of itself.”
Mo Konateh, Kirby Mongcopa Lead the Way
Mo Konateh led the Tamaraws with 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Kirby Mongcopa posted a double‑double of 13 points and 13 rebounds, along with 6 assists and 1 steal. Janrey Pasaol added 12 points and 6 assists, while Jedric Daa contributed 12 points and 5 rebounds.
For the Red Warriors, Tope Lagat paced the team with 20 points and 5 rebounds, while Mo Tañedo had 16 points. Gene Carillo added 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The Tamaraws will next face the defending champions La Salle Green Archers on Wednesday, September 30, at 5:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Earlier that day at 3:00 p.m., the Red Warriors will take on the UST Growling Tigers.
