Quezon City, Philippines—In a thrilling day of basketball, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tiger Cubs and Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles clinched narrow victories in the UAAP Season 87 boys’ basketball tournament, sharing second place after their respective matches at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Tiger Cubs barely edged out the defending champions, National University Nazareth School Bullpups, with an 84-83 victory. Key players Nickson Cabañero and Jhon Canapi each scored 22 points, holding off a late-game surge by the Bullpups. The game saw a dramatic final quarter, where NU closed a significant gap, nearly overturning the Tiger Cubs’ lead in the last seconds of the match. Despite missing crucial free throws, UST managed to secure the win after a failed layup attempt by NU’s Chester Tulabut as time expired.
On the other hand, the Ateneo Blue Eagles faced a formidable challenge from Adamson University, ultimately prevailing 79-73. Ateneo’s Sky Jazul and Zane Kallos were instrumental, scoring 19 and 18 points respectively, with Kallos also grabbing 12 rebounds. The Blue Eagles saw their lead diminish in the final six minutes as Adamson launched a 17-2 run, testing Ateneo’s resilience under pressure.
UST coach Noli Mejos commented on the adjustments teams are making early in the season, noting, “All teams are adjusting. The first three games, everyone struggled because they’re guessing. They don’t know who the opponent is, how strong—we’re also adjusting the rotation.” Meanwhile, Ateneo head coach Reggie Aromin emphasized the need for composure, especially in closing out games, acknowledging the young team’s growth and learning curve.
The day’s games not only provided spectacular basketball but also highlighted the intense competition and strategic depth of the teams participating in UAAP Season 87.
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