The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws bounced back from a season-opener loss by disarming the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 81-65, in their first round campaign of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season 82 men’s basketball tournament, September 8 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

The Morayta-based cagers started strong in the first canto by having an early 8-0 run. FEU carried their momentum to the second frame and pumped up their lead up to 13 points, registering a 30-17 in the bucket.

But the Red Warriors answered back with a 0-8 run of their own to cut the lead to five at 30-25.

After the halftime, UE became more aggressive in attacking the basket, resulting more free throws for them and cutting FEU’s lead to five again, 44-39.

With over eight minutes to play in the final frame, the momentum favored FEU courtesy of a 10-0 surge to grab a 68-53 score advantage over UE. Xyrus Torres then swished a three to knock down the Warriors, 73-58.

As per FEU head coach Olsen Racela, this season for them is no different from last year. The only difference is that his team will rely on young guards.

“This season is no different, [ang] difference lang siguro (the only difference) is the young guards this season. We’re relying on our young core, like I said ‘yun ang thrust namin (that’s our thrust). We’re investing on our young core,” he said.

Wendell Comboy led the Tams with his game-high 24 points which came from a six-of-nine shooting on beyond the arc, while L-Jay Gonzales chipped in 14 points, a team-high of eight boards and eight assists with three steals.

The green-and-gold cagers will have a week rest before they face the defending champions Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles on September 14 at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City.

-Joaquin Luis E. Quesada
(See full album: UAAP 82 Men's Basketball - FEU vs UE)