Mark Llemit gave the University of Santo Tomas a big night in the frontcourt. The forward scored 22 points to lead the Growling Tigers past the University of the East, 98-87, in UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball on Wednesday, September 30.

Llemit also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out three assists as UST won its second straight game at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The Growling Tigers improved to 2-1 and moved into a five-way tie for first place.

Llemit and Acido Power the UST Frontcourt

Llemit was the steadiest presence for UST, filling the stat sheet with 22 points, seven rebounds and three assists. His all-around game gave the Growling Tigers reliable production at the forward spot all night.

Amiel Acido backed him up with 16 points, continuing his string of strong games. Landyn Jumawan and Collins Akowe also came through with key plays as UST kept UE at bay down the stretch.

UST led by just five points after the opening quarter. It then took control in the second, outscoring UE, 28-14, to build a 52-33 halftime lead.

UST Holds Off UE Rally, Joins Five-Way Tie in UAAP Standings

The Red Warriors refused to fold in the second half. Back-to-back layups by Cole Cruz-Dumont made it 83-77 with 6:06 left in the fourth quarter, but that was as close as UE would get.

UST answered down the stretch to seal the 98-87 win. The Growling Tigers now share the top of the standings with National University, UP, Ateneo and Far Eastern University.

FEU joined the logjam by beating defending champion La Salle later that day, Inquirer Sports reported. The result left five teams tied atop the standings early in Season 89.