UAAP: Macalalag, La Salle torch UST to rejoin Final Four picture

De La Salle University’s JC Macalalag against University of Santo Tomas in UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball. UAAP Media.MANILA — JC Macalalag scorched hot as De La Salle University notched a crucial win to move back into the Final Four picture of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament.

The veteran wing fired 28 points on 6-of-8 shooting from long range as the Green Archers torched University of Santo Tomas, 92-80, on Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym in Manila.

La Salle squandered a 12-point lead but regained control in the final period, knocking down five triples in the quarter to pull away and move up to third place with five wins in nine outings. 

Andrei Dungo was equally vital in the victory with 24 points built on four three-pointers, while Joaquin Tovera paced La Salle with 15 points, nine assists, seven rebounds, and three steals as he stepped up in the absence of the injured Jacob Cortez.

Amiel Acido, meanwhile, led UST’s comeback hopes with 20 points on 5-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc, while Landyn Jumawan added 18 markers, all of which also came from long distance.

Unfortunately for the Growling Tigers, Macalalag, Dungo, and Tovera came up with timely baskets down the stretch, helping the Archers fend off the rally and hand UST its fifth loss in nine games.