By NIKOLE JAVIER
University of the East’s Final Four drive suffered a huge blow when rookie Precious Momowei was suspended after committing his second unsportsmanlike foul during the Warriors’ game against La Salle last Sunday.
As a direct consequence, the Warriors will be without the 6-foot-9 Momowei when they collide against the defending champion Ateneo Eagles on Wednesday in the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament.
With a 4-8 mark, the Warriors must win their last two games to forge a playoff for the fourth and last semis berth.
University of the Philippines, National University and La Salle have already secured their slots in the semis as early as last week.
Momowei’s first unsportsmanlike foul occurred in the first round on Oct. 15, 2023, against Adamson.
The 6-foot-9 freshman has been averaging 11.5 points, 14.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, making him the Rookie of the Year frontrunner.
With his suspension, Momowie is now ineligible for any post-season award.
Last season, NU Bulldogs’ Kean Baclaan was also disqualified from the same individual award following his two unsportsmanlike fouls in the elimination round.
Baclaan’s disqualification allowed now MVP frontrunner Kevin Quiambao of La Salle to win the award.
