UST secures Final Four berth with statement win over NU
The University of Santo Tomas punched its ticket to the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final Four after outlasting National University, 80–71, on Sunday, November 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Needing a win to avoid complications in the standings, the Growling Tigers delivered when it mattered most. UST drained four timely three-pointers in the fourth quarter to break away from the Bulldogs and secure the No. 3 seed heading into the playoffs. The victory improved UST’s record to 8–5, marking the program’s return to postseason contention.
Gelo Crisostomo led the España squad with 13 points and five rebounds, while Mark Llemit and Amiel Acido chipped in 11 markers each. Collins Akowe added a steady double-double performance of 11 points and 11 rebounds to anchor the Tigers on both ends.
UST is set to wrap up the elimination round against Far Eastern University on Wednesday, though the result will no longer affect their Final Four placement.
For NU, Omar John posted 12 points and 11 boards, but the Bulldogs closed the eliminations with an 11–3 record and will regroup as they enter the next phase of the tournament.
With momentum on their side, the Growling Tigers move into the semifinals eager to continue their postseason resurgence.
