UAAP: UST overcomes late UE surge for second straight win - GMA Network

The University of Santo Tomas obtained its second consecutive win after fending off University of the East, 98-87, Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Swingman Mark Llemit paced the Growling Tigers in scoring against UE, finishing with 22 points, 17 of which came in the first half alone.

Llemit also produced seven rebounds and three assists to round out a strong performance, helping UST improve to 2-1 in the team standings.

Meanwhile, Amiel Acido also chipped in 16 points, highlighted by a 12-point outburst in the opening quarter to cover for UST’s initial offensive load.

Despite the Red Warriors threatening to come back towards the tailend of the matchup, 86-80, timely baskets from Llemit and big man Collins Akowe down the stretch enabled UST to ultimately put the game to bed.

Akowe churned out a double-double of 14 points and 11 boards, while also swatting away six shots throughout 23 minutes of playing time.

On the other hand, guard Toper Lagat led UE in the scoring department with 22 points on a 40.0% shooting clip from the field.

Mo Tanedo and Cole Cruz-Dumont swiftly followed suit with 16 and 12 points respectively as the Red Warriors continue its adjustment under new acting head tactician Paulo Hubalde.

UST 98 – Llemit 22, Acido 16, Akowe 14, Jumawan 13, Buenaflor 8, Chio 6, Canete 5, Danting 4, Esteban 3, Manding 3, Porter 2, Bucsit 0, Sevilla 0.

UE 87 – Lagat 22, Tanedo 16, Cruz-Dumont 12, Carillo 10, Robles 7, Edoukou 4, Santos 4, Jimenez 4, Sabroso 3, Vasquez 3, Mascarinas 2, Dungca 0.

Quarters: 24-19, 52-33, 75-61, 98-87.