By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws kept their UAAP Final Four bid alive after eliminating the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles from playoff contention, 65-54, in the ongoing Season 87 preliminary phase on November 9, 2024, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
With a disappointing 3-9 win-loss record after the defeat, the Blue Eagles will miss the UAAP Final Four for the first time in 11 years, ending their tremendous post-season streak this Season 87.
The rejuvenated Tamaraws immediately kicked off the highly-anticipated duel with an aggressive approach as they pummeled their attack inside with the length and size advantage that they had over the Blue Eagles.
Fresh off a nail-biting loss at the hands of the reigning UAAP champion De La Salle University, the Tamaraws bounced back and learned the most valuable lesson from that defeat: Taking care of the ball.
FEU remained patient with their approach throughout the game against Ateneo and let the offense come to them, not forcing any costly shot while also defending with discipline.
Rookie floor general Janrey Pasaol continued his stellar outing for the Tamaraws and picked up where he left off after performing efficiently in their loss to DLSU.
The two-way player achieved his career-best in scoring so far in his debut year, tallying 14 big points alongside seven rebounds, six assists, and two steals.
Pasaol’s energy set the tone for the Tamaraws after driving at will against the loose Ateneo interior defense while also setting up his teammates off their signature curl action in the elbows.
Backstopping Pasaol in their win was wingman Rojan Montemayor who contributed 13 markers while foreign student-athlete Mo Konateh added a dominant double-double outing of 11 points and 21 rebounds.
On the other hand, Ilonggo point guard Ian Espinosa powered the Blue Eagles with a team-high 14-point outing but his stellar performance wasn’t enough to steer Ateneo to an important win.
