By Joaquin Luis E. Quesada

Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws ended their three-game losing streak and got back in the winning column after bulldozing the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 88-74, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season 84 men’s basketball tournament, last April 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

FEU’s sharpshooter Xyrus Torres scorched the Red Warriors with a career-high 26 points and eight triples to lead the Tamaraws in snapping their losing streak.

FEU’s big man Emman Ojoula posted a monster double-double with 18 points and grabbed 19 boards. LJay Gonzales chipped in with 13 points and dished out eight assists.

The Tamaraws dominated the game early with a 20-6 first-quarter lead, they further ballooned it up to an 18-point lead at halftime, 40-22.

However, the Red Warriors went off in the third canto as they brought down the 23-point lead to nine, 54-45. The Morayta dribblers kept their composure in the final frame as Gonzales knocked down the dagger-three in the late game to seal the victory for the Tamaraws, 88-74.

“[It’s a] much-needed victory after a three-game losing streak. So, we needed a victory more for our morale,” FEU Head Coach Olsen said.

He didn’t want to celebrate yet as there are two heavy matchups left in the first round.

“Back to the drawing board [para] paghandaan ‘yung dalawang games (to prepare the two remaining games),” Racela said.

FEU improved to a 2-3 win-loss slate after breaking the losing streak. They will face Head Coach Nash Racela and his Adamson Soaring Falcons squad on Thursday, and this will be the first time that the Racela brothers will go head-to-head in the college league.

“Before the season [started], minarkahan ko na ‘yung Adamson [matchup] namin (I already marked the date of the matchup against Adamson),” Racela shared.

(Photo courtesy of The UAAP)