FEU stuns Ateneo, forces do-or-die

(FEU big man Arvin Tolentino attempting a layup. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/Inquirer.net)

The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws upset the twice-to-beat Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles, 80-67, in the semifinals of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 80 Men’s Basketball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.

FEU guard Hubert Cani’s triple in the 2:45 mark of the payoff period gave the Tamaraws a 17-point lead, the largest of the game.

The two team went toe-to-toe in the first half with FEU leading by just three points at halftime, 38-35.

Tanaraws captain Ron Dennison poured eight of his 17 markers, including two trifectas, in the third frame where they managed to put a comfortable cushion at the end of the period, 59-48.

FEU limited ADMU to just 36.62% shooting from the field, while the Tanaaws shot 49.21%.

Dennison spearheaded the Tamaraws with 17 points, eight rebounds and three assists while Blue Eagles turned Tamaraws players Arvin Tolentino and Hubert Cani chipped in 13 and 11 markers, respectively.

Thirdy Ravena led the Blue Eagles with 17 markers and six boards while brothers Mike and Matt Nieto scored 13 and 11, respectively. Chibueze Ikeh was held scoreless in 20 minutes of play.

The rubber match will be on Wednesday, Nov. 22, at the Mall of Asia arena. The winner will face the DLSU Green Archers on a best-of-three Finals. SHAYLA ROMERO