Final Four hopeful UST Growling Tigers during a UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament game. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Despite squandering a 27-point lead, University of Santo Toma survived University of the East’s multiple comeback attempts for a 76-67 decision in the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament Saturday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“The players didn’t give up until the end. Of course, there were those key runs—they made 3-4 three-point shots to keep it close. We stayed focused, especially since our last games will decide if we make it to the Final Four. This game was important for us. You could see the desire in the players,” said Coach Pido Jarencio.

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Nic Cabañero led the Growling Tigers with 27 points and eight rebounds as UST, which was coming off a 67-62 loss to National University on Wednesday, somehow eased the pressure by other Final Four hopefuls chasing it.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 87 basketball

“We’re just taking in this win, and by tomorrow, we’ll be focused on our next game,” Cabañero said. “The race for the Final Four isn’t over yet, especially against Adamson.”

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Gelo Crisostomo was efficient with 14 points and seven rebounds. Before fouling out, Christian Manaytay contributed 10 points and seven rebounds for UST who rose to 6-7, still as the fourth-seeded crew.

UST Growling Tigers’ Nic Cabañero during a UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament game. -UAAP PHOTO

“I’m happy because my game came back today, and Chris always says that I need to show my game,” Crisostomo said.

UST created a seemingly comfortable cushion, 41-14, in the second quarter which UE slowly chipped off to a 20-point disadvantage at halftime.

The Red Warriors proved to be relentless—and physical, leaving three Tigers bloodied—and even managed to close the game within five, 69-64, thanks to productive last two quarters.

READ: UAAP: UST Tigers set out to enhance Final Four chances

Frhee throws of Cabañero and Manaytay put the game beyond UE’s reach.

“We’re thankful that we won our game today because it will help us, and it gives us a better chance of making it to the Final Four. But it’s not over yet because we still have our game next Saturday. It’s also a must-win game,” Manaytay said.

Jack Cruz-Dumont regained his form but his 19 points from 50 percent shooting were not enough to help UE snap its losing streak. Wello Lingolingo contributed 13 points and six rebounds while Devin Fikes added 12 points and seven rebounds.

Precious Momowei—who inadvertently hit Crisostomo and Tounkara in separate plays to leave them bloodied on the floor—chipped in six points and two rebounds before being ejected in the fourth quarter with two unsportsmanlike fouls.

After a successful first round, the Red Warriors suffered a third consecutive loss here in the second round to a 6-6 card with two more games left, versus University of the Philippines and Ateneo, which was also eliminated out of semifinal contention for the first time since 2013 and under coach Tab Baldwin with UST’s victory.

The Tigers can secure their Final Four spot for the first time since Season 82 as they wrap up the elimination round against Adamson on Nov. 16 at FilOil EcoOil Centre.