Thanks to ABS-CBN Sports free live streaming, I was able to watch this game between the University of Sto. Tomas Growling Tigers against the National University Bulldogs. This is part of the second round of eliminations for the UAAP Season 78 Men's Basketball.
Tournament leader UST was cruising along in the first two and a half quarters, leading by as much as 12 points most of the way.
But Alolino, Aroga and an ace defense from NU made it an exciting game in the fourth quarter, eventually taking the lead after Alolino's 3 point shot 55 - 54. UST got the lead back on a basket by Vigil. Sheriff made a steal that led to a lay-up by Daquioag for a 58 -55 score.
An exchange of baskets to UST advantage, NU failed to score on their posession. Karim Abdul made two free throws for a more comfortable 62-57 lead for UST with only 26.9 seconds to go.
After a time-out, Alolino missed on his three-point try. And there goes their chances as Kevin Ferrer closed the scoring in the free throw line 65 - 57.
UST exacted revenge for their only of Season 78 so far. More importantly, their 8th win secured for them at least a play-off berth for a final four slot.
For NU, the loss will make it doubly harder for them to reach final four and be able to defend the championship they won last year.
SIDE NOTE:
One of the referees who officiated this game was my P.E. Teacher for Basketball, Mr. Ballecer.
