INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines- (UPDATE) Defending champion Ateneo won over UST, 73-68, to complete a semis upset in UAAP juniors basketball at The Arena in San Juan.

The Eaglets completed a two-game sweep over th Cubs, who hold a twice-to-beat advantage, setting up a finals showdown with rival La Salle Zobel.

The Junior Archers, who led all teams throughout the tournament, won over Far Eastern U in their final four pairing.

Still inspired by their previous win last Saturday, the Eaglets had a solid start ending the half on top, 41-29.
The Cubs tried to close the gap outscoring the Eaglets 18-15 in the third quarter. Cedrick Labing-isa tied the game 60-all with four minutes to go.

But two consecutive shots by team captain Raphael Banal and crucial free throws by Paolo Romero sealed the win for Ateneo, who were again led by Kiefer Ravena with 24 points.

Eaglets mentor Jamike Jarin called it their best game so far this season.

"We will enjoy it for now but we have to get ready because they've been waiting and I know they are ready," said Jarin, referring to La Salle.

The Scores:
ADMU-73 Ravena 24, Banal 22, Capacio 8, Sinco 5, Romero 4, Dumrique 4, Reyes 2, Pessumal 2, Bugarin 2

UST- 68 Neypes 20, Ferrer 18, Labing-isa 12, Dia 9, Jimenez 6, Riva 2, Inciong 1