UE forces Game 3 in UAAP juniors finals after beating UST

The University of the East Junior Warriors defeated the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs, 76-70, forcing a Game 3 in the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Finals.

UE capitalized on the early ejection of UST's Mythical Five member Andwele Cabanero, who was disqualified in the first quarter after striking Neil Garcia.

Mav Mesina led the Junior Warriors with 21 points, five assists, and four rebounds, while Gab delos Reyes anchored the paint with 11 points, 21 rebounds, and three blocks.

Despite Cabanero's absence, UST mounted a resilient effort, fueled by the combined 62-point output of Jhon Canapi, Miguel Jubilado, and Dustin Bathan.

UE is looking to end a 39-year championship drought, while UST aims for their first high school basketball title since 2001.

Cabanero, who was instrumental in UST's Game 1 victory, will miss the decisive Game 3 due to his ejection.

UE head coach Andrew Estrella emphasized the team's determination to win, stating, 'That's the motivation: to bring UE another championship. As I've said, huwag kayo susuko 'eh, and then we won, so bakit pa namin ibibigay ito? Ang dami na namin pinaghirapan, in and out the court, ito na 'yon 'eh. Bakit pa namin ibibigay 'eh nandito na kami sa Game 3.'