Eagles survive gritty Tigers to protect perfect record

MANILA, Philippines - The Ateneo Blue Eagles escaped the UST Growling Tigers, 71-70, to stay unbeaten in the 82nd UAAP men's baskeball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

It was a back-and-forth affair in the endgame, with the Eagles' Angelo Kouame crucially blocking Chabiyo's jumper as Ateneo held on to a 68-67 lead with 30 seconds left.

Ateneo preserved the win despite Renzo Subido's triple in the closing seconds, which only brought UST to within a point, hence the 71-70 final tally.

Thirdy Ravena posted a double-double with 17 points and 19 rebounds to pace the Eagles, who remain undefeated in three games.

Chabiyo finished with a game-high 25 points and pulled down 13 rebounds to lead the Tigers.