UST one win away from UAAP Junior High title

University of Santo Tomas (UST) is one win away from clinching the championship in the UAAP Junior High School Basketball Tournament after defeating University of the East (UE), 98-84, on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Jhon Canapi led UST with 30 points and six rebounds, while Miguel Jubilado added 23 points and eight assists, and Nickson Cabanero contributed 21 points, 16 rebounds, and eight assists.

UST took control in the second quarter, outscoring UE 33-14 to build a significant halftime lead. The Tiger Cubs also dominated on the boards with 19 rebounds compared to UE's five.

Despite being the top-seeded team, UE struggled as Ethan Oraa and Kiefer Panganiban each scored only 14 points.

UST will have another chance to secure their first title since Season 64 (2001) when they face UE again on Sunday, December 15 at 10 a.m. in the Smart Araneta Coliseum.