November 23, 2024

UAAP: Ateneo snaps three-game slump, denies UE outright Final Four spot

UAAP: Ateneo snaps three-game slump, denies UE outright Final Four spot
Andrew Bongo led the cavalry for the Blue Eagles as they ended a three-game losing streak at the expense of the UE Red Warriors on Wednesday. | Photo: The UAAP
The Ateneo Blue Eagles denied the UE Red Warriors an outright berth for the Final Four, snapping a three-game losing streak in UAAP Season 87 and winning, 71-67, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion on Wednesday.

 

In a game that no longer had any bearing for the Blue Eagles, Jared Bahay scored the go-ahead bucket to push Ateneo ahead with 20 ticks left in the ball game.

[ALSO READ: Tab Baldwin admits Ateneo ‘knocked down’ as UAAP Final Four streak comes to an end]

The rookie’s clutch make turned back the Red Warriors’ efforts to comeback from a deficit as big as 15 points. Midway through the fourth quarter, UE was ahead by five, 65-60, after a Rainer Maga triple.

 

But a 11-2 run by the Blue Eagles to finish the game denied UE the victory.

 

Sean Quitevis nailed two free throws to seal the deal for the Blue Eagles to make it a two-possession affair with 8.5 remaining in the ball game.

 

 

Ateneo thus improved their record to 4-9 with one game remaining in elimination.

 

Andrew Bongo was the top-scorer for Ateneo in an efficient outing where he chipped in 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. He was a +17 in efficiency.

 

Four others finished in double-digit scoring for the Blue Eagles. Late-game hero Bahay had 11 markers, two rebounds, and two assists.

 

Josh Lazaro ended up with the double-double of 11 points and 12 rebounds.

 

Meanwhile, UE, who were playing without the services of Nigerian big man precious Momowei who was serving a suspension, were paced by Maga’s 15 points.

[ALSO READ: UAAP: UE’s Precious Momowei slapped with one-game suspension]

 

Despite the loss, the Red Warriors remain within reach of a Final Four slot with their 6-7 slate. The Red Warriors have lost four games in a row. 

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