Tamaraws send Eagles on brink of elimination

MANILA, Philippines — Far Eastern U kept its Final Four hopes alive with a huge 65-54 win over Ateneo in the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Tamaraws banked on a torrid run in the third quarter and never looked back to boost their semifinal hopes at 5-8, a stone’s throw away from Adamson (4-7) and Santo Tomas (5-7) in an arms’ race for the coveted fourth spot with a game to spare.

FEU’s win in the process pushed Ateneo on the brink of elimination at 3-9 with a win by Santo Tomas against University of the East (6-5) at press time officially kicking Ateneo out of the race.

Janrey Pasaol chalked up 14 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two steals to spearhead the way as FEU completed a season sweep of the once mighty Ateneo side after a 66-65 overtime win in the first round.

Rojan Montemayor added 13 while Mo Konateh collared a double-double of 11 points and 21 rebounds laced by two blocks for the wards of first-year mentor Sean Chambers.

“I’m so proud of these guys. Like I said last game, I made it pretty tough for them and these guys have responded. These are good kids and they continue to grow. Now, we have five wins,” said coach Sean Chambers.

“We’re happy that we’re still playing for something.”