Tigers beat Red Warriors to avoid winless campaign

MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATED) University of Santo Tomas (UST) avoided a winless campaign in UAAP Season 80 by escaping University of the East in a wild finish, 88-85, on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

It was the lone victory of the men's basketball tournament for the Growling Tigers, which lost 17 consecutive contests dating back to Season 79 before finally breaking through against the Red Warriors in their final game of Season 80.

Steve Akomo did the heavy lifting for UST, tallying 18 points, 20 rebounds, three assists, and six blocked shots in almost 35 minutes of playing time. Regie Basibas, in his final game, scored a game-high 21 points on top of nine rebounds.

"Siyempre masaya, hindi kami na-zero, 'di ba," embattled UST coach Boy Sablan said after they finished Season 80 with a 1-13 win-loss record – still the worst in the history of their program.

"Para sa akin, masarap 'yung feeling na nanalo," said UST guard Marvin Lee, who had 11 points in the win. "Sabi nga, parang nag-champion kami."

Author: Camille B. Naredo, ABS-CBN News
Full Article: http://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/11/12/17/uaap-tigers-beat-red-warriors-to-avoid-winless-campaign