UST knocks off Letran, faces FEU next in PCCL

MANILA, Philippines — UAAP finalist University of Santo Tomas knocked off NCAA second placer Letran, 77-60, to move closer to a Final Four berth in the Philippine Collegiate Champions League (PCCL) Monday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Clark Bautista exploded in the second half scoring 18 of his 23 points in the final two quarters to lead the Growling Tigers’ charge.

Karim Abdul added 11 points and 17 rebounds for UST as the Knights found no answer for the Cameroonian center with reigning NCAA MVP Raymond Almazan already in the pro ranks.

Forward Kevin Ferrer chipped in 13 points, five rebounds and two blocks for the Tigers as he and Bautista were able to outscore the Knights, 31-28, in the second half.

UST will meet Far Eastern University Tuesday at 4 p.m. at the same venue for the last semifinals berth.

Point guard Mark Cruz led Letran with 18 points on top of seven rebounds and four assists.