UST Growling Tigers clinch Final Four spot after beating NU Bulldogs

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers secured a spot in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball Final Four by defeating the National University (NU) Bulldogs, 80-71.

This victory propelled UST to a solo third place with an 8-5 record, ending the elimination round and securing the third seed for the second straight season.

Gelo Crisostomo led UST with 13 points and five rebounds, while Collins Akowe, Mark Llemit, and Amiel Acido contributed 11 points each.

Despite the loss, the NU Bulldogs, already assured of the top seed, closed the eliminations with an 11-3 slate and will have a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals.

UST head coach Pido Jarencio expressed pride in his team's resilience, highlighting their ability to overcome doubts after a mid-season slump and noting the team's confidence increased after wins against UE and Ateneo.

UST will face UP in the Final Four, with Jarencio confident in his team's ability to compete despite the disadvantage.

The Growling Tigers will close out the eliminations against the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in a non-bearing match as preparation for the Final Four.