Tams survive Maroons’ late surge

Far Eastern University (FEU) held its composure down the stretch and weathered the resurgence of University of the Philippines (UP), 82-79, in overtime in Season 82 of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball tournament Sunday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Fil-Kiwi Ken Tuffin powered the Tamaraws with 18 points, including a huge triple in the extra inning as FEU joined La Salle and University of Santo Tomas in the team standings with 4-4 marks.

Sophomore playmaker LJ Gonzales tallied career-highs 17 points and 12 rebounds to go along with his six assists while Pat Tchuente finished with 14 and 11 boards.

“It was a hard-fought win for us today and that’s what you expect every game in the UAAP. I tell them that they just have to focus on what’s in front of them which is UP,” Tamaraws head coach Olsen Racela said.

“For me, it’s hard to scout UP. They really have great players. They will always find a way to score but our defense had to be stronger.”

Kobe Paras shone for the Maroons as he nailed 22 points, nine rebounds and six steals while Bright Akhueti added 14 points, 11 boards and two blocks.

Senior Javi Gomez de Liano chipped in 11 markers and four rebounds for the Fighting Maroons, who remained at No. 2 with 5-3.

UP, which played minus its head coach Bo Perasol who is serving a three-game suspension, closed the regulation with a 16-0 run to send the game in overtime, 69-all.

Wendel Comboy had the chance to win for FEU but his three-point attempt rimmed out.

Comboy and Tuffin joined forces in extra sessions, hitting clutch baskets to preserve the victory for the Morayta-based squad.