USA fights back and survives Slovenia to secure quarterfinal spot
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Akowe, UST stun defending champs UP in UAAP Season 88 opener
It was a dream debut for Collins Akowe and a perfect opening statement for host school University of Santo Tomas.
The rookie sensation powered the Growling Tigers to a stunning 87-67 rout of defending champion University of the Philippines in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball opener on Sunday, September 20, instantly reshaping the league’s title picture.
Akowe, a prized recruit from the National University Bullpups, imposed his will on both ends of the floor, finishing with a monster double-double of 29 points and 17 rebounds. His dominance in the paint anchored UST’s charge, as the España-based squad set the tone early and never looked back.
With the Growling Tigers’ suffocating defense complementing Akowe’s inside presence, the Fighting Maroons were kept on their heels all game long, unable to find their rhythm in their first step toward a title defense.
The convincing victory not only gave UST a massive morale boost but also signaled that the once-struggling program is determined to contend this season.
Courtesy: UAAP Media
Collins Akowe’s dominant debut and UST’s stunning victory over defending champion UP in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball opener. The piece highlights Akowe’s double-double performance, UST’s defensive strength, and the statement this win makes for the Growling Tigers’ campaign.
