FEU-D rips Zobel, keeps clean slate

Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU-D) stayed undefeated in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 87 high school boys’ 3x3 basketball tournament on Thursday after escaping with a 21-16 win over De La Salle-Zobel at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.

Cabs Cabonillas spearheaded the Baby Tamaraws’ attack, finishing with 10 points and 11 rebounds, including the game-winning basket with 38.7 seconds left as they improved to a perfect 4-0 record and took sole possession of the top spot.

Liam Salangsang and Marc Burgos chipped in seven and four points, respectively, to back up Cabonillas.

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University and Adamson University kept pace with identical 3-1 records to remain tied for second place after pulling off thrilling victories over National University and University of Santo Tomas, respectively.

The Blue Eagles edged the Bullpups, 15-14, behind Ziv Espinas’ all-around effort of seven points and seven rebounds, while Earl Medina nailed the game-winning deuce in overtime, finishing with eight points.

“Of course, we know that we can. If we can’t show our talent here, the trust given to us will be worthless, especially since we didn’t perform well in the 5-on-5,” said Espinas, reflecting on Ateneo’s last-place finish in the 5-on-5 tournament a few months back.

University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) also stayed in contention with a 15-13 victory over University of the East. Jaime Gomez de Liaño led the Junior Maroons with seven points and seven rebounds.

With the win, UPIS joined Nazareth School-National University and University of Santo Tomas in a three-way tie for fourth place, although the Bullpups hold the advantage via quotient.