The UP Fighting Maroons ended their two-game losing streak, holding off a late rally from the La Salle Green Archers, 80-76, in the UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
UP, La Salle Engage in Furious Ending
Veejay Pre’s layup with 8:43 remaining gave UP a 14-point lead, 67-53. That basket sparked the Green Archers, who went on a 20-5 run and took their first lead of the game, 73-72, capped by a Jacob Cortez three-pointer.
Dikachi Ududo split his free throws before Pre’s jumper put last season’s silver medalists back on top, 75-73. The Fighting Maroons then made four of six free throws as time wound down to lead 79-73 with 21.5 seconds left. Luis Pablo answered with a three-point play, but time ran out before La Salle could complete the comeback.
“Going towards this game, it’s more of a test of character for the team. Galing kami from two losses and nakapag-regroup ‘yung team. Facing La Salle after two losses, big challenge for us,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde.
Stars Show Out in Marquee Matchup
Rey Remogat finished the game with 20 points. Elliot Dimaculangan added 11 points, while Pre contributed 10 points and 7 rebounds.
For La Salle, Jcee Macalalag led the team with 17 points, and Pablo had 14 points and 9 rebounds. Doy Dungo chipped in 12 points, while Cortez was held to 10 points and 6 assists.
The Fighting Maroons will next face the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Wednesday, October 14, 5:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Meanwhile, La Salle will close out the first round also against the Soaring Falcons on Sunday, October 18, 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City.
