By Jun Ray Navarres
University of Santo Tomas’ slump continued after a 20-point loss to Ateneo de Manila University, 97-77, enduring a winless stint at the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Basketball Tournament, Wednesday morning at the MOA Arena.
UST managed to find some momentum in the second stanza but was left with a 72-61 lead going into the final period due to Blue Eagle Joseph Obasa’s 11-point quarter.
Ateneo’s main guys continued their assault until the final quarter to hand UST their sixth loss for this season’s version of UAAP.
“We shot over 50 percent from the field (and) held a tough UST team,” said Ateneo long-time head coach Tab Baldwin.
“I know their record doesn’t flatter them but all the teams that played against them know how tough they are. We held them to 40 percent (from the field).”
Chris Koon went above and beyond for the Blue Eagles scoring 21 points, six rebounds, and five dimes on a +23 efficiency.
Kai Ballungay and Obasa added 17 points apiece with 15 boards total. Rookie Mason Amos also provided 15 points for Ateneo.
Meanwhile, Nic Cabañero held up a consistent performance for struggling UST with 21 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Christian Manaytay added 17 points and seven rebounds.
The win came at a perfect timing for Ateneo especially with the rematch against University of the Philippines coming up on Sunday.
“Generally speaking, it was a good game on both ends of the floor for us. I think we need that kind of performance, especially going into the UP game and we’re happy. It’s gonna be a very, very happy dugout today,” shared Baldwin.
On the other hand, UST will seek a win against Far Eastern University on Sunday.
Featured photo courtesy of UAAP
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