The UST Growling Tigers reigned supreme in the inaugural Asiabasket Anta Kai 3×3 tournament on Saturday at Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall.
Gelo Crisostomo, Mur Alao, Amiel Acido and Lorenzo Bangco edged the San Beda Red Lions — bannered by Kyle Jamora, JC Bonzalida, JE Lopez and Lawrence Hawkins — 20-18 in the final to claim the P100,000 cash prize.
Trailing 16-13 late in the game, UST unleashed a 7-2 closing run sparked by Crisostomo’s timely baskets to secure the victory.
Tied at 16-all, Acido sank two free throws to give UST an 18-16 lead and never looked back.
Acido was named tournament MVP after steering UST to wins over the Lyceum Pirates, UE Red Warriors and the College of St. Benilde Blazers in the one-day event.
The tournament forms part of the Tigers’ buildup for the UAAP 3×3 basketball competition in May, where UST aims to improve on last year’s silver-medal finish.
The victory came a week after UST fell short in the championship of the Pinoyliga Invitational Cup against Japanese squad Tokai University.
