UST takes last spot in PCCL final four

THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers grabbed the last spot in the Final Four of the 2012 Philippine Collegiate Champions League (PCCL) as they downed the Adamson Soaring Falcons in easy fashion, 88-64, yesterday at the Arena in San Juan City.

The win earned UST a shot at the PCCL title as it now joins early qualifiers Ateneo, San Beda and Southwestern University.

Aljon Mariano led a searing rally in the third period that allowed UST to lead, 58-45, after being ahead by just six at halftime. Mariano finished with 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

The Falcons’ ended their seven-game run in this competition.

The Tigers start off their semifinal campaign with a UAAP finals rematch against the Blue Eagles tomorrow at 4 p.m. The Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) titlists SWU battle San Beda at 2 p.m.

Meanwhile, in the exhibition matches between champion teams in the high school division, the UAAP titlists Far Eastern University defeated the Cesafi champs Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, 73-69.

Ironically, it was another Cebuano that gutted the Magis Eagles in two-time reigning MVP Jerie Pingoy, who had 24 points, five rebounds, seven dimes and three steals. SHS-AdC was led by the 19 points of Cesafi MVP Dawn Ochea. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio