Metro Manila, Philippines – The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons pulled off a pulsating 82-81 win over the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers in their UAAP Season 88 Final Four men’s basketball encounter on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Harold Alarcon poured in 22 points and two rebounds, while Francis Nnoruka added 19 points and nine rebounds for the Fighting Maroons.

Terrence Fortea made the biggest shot of the match as he knocked down a clutch triple to give UP the 82-81 lead with 48.5 seconds remaining in the fourth period.

The Growling Tigers had the chance to steal the victory, but Nic Cabanero missed his turnaround jumper which led to the Fighting Maroons wasting the time until the final buzzer sounded.

Team captain Cabanero paced UST with 24 markers, three boards, and three dimes.

UP now awaits the winner of the La Salle-National University do-or-die match happening on Dec. 6.