Manila: Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU-D) and Adamson University both emerged victorious in their respective opening games of the UAAP Season 88 junior high school boys’ basketball tournament, held at the Quadricentennial Pavilion Arena, University of Santo Tomas. FEU-D triumphed over Ateneo de Manila University with a score of 91-80, while Adamson University defeated De La Salle-Zobel 85-69.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Baby Tamaraws of FEU-D, led by Gilas Boys member Prince Cari±o, dominated the game early with a 52-42 lead in the first half and extended their advantage to a 22-point lead in the third quarter. Cari±o delivered an impressive performance, scoring 30 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and providing two assists. His teammate, Dwyne Enriquez, also contributed significantly with 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, six steals, and three blocks.
FEU-D coach Muriel Garcia expressed the importance of maintaining momentum after the game. “First, I told them that we need to work right now. We need to win and if we can get a win, let’s get it so we don’t have problems in the second round,” Garcia stated. He emphasized the team’s determination to avoid past setbacks, referencing a previous defeat to UST despite having a twice-to-beat advantage.
In the game against Ateneo, Prince Pineda and Dwayne Ca±ete also added valuable contributions to FEU-D’s victory with six points each, along with substantial rebounds, assists, and steals. Ateneo’s efforts were led by Domeng Ngo and Sky Jazul, who scored 16 and 14 points respectively.
In the second game, Adamson University’s Baby Falcons secured their win against De La Salle-Zobel, with Keefe Iledan delivering a standout performance of 17 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, and two blocks. Kyles Abas, Seb Esma, and Fran Flores also contributed significantly to the team’s dominant performance.
Adamson’s new coach, Dante Tangco, expressed optimism for the season, stating, “This year, we’re looking forward to doing something better, doing more and doing well than last year.” The Baby Falcons’ performance marked a strong start compared to their seventh-place finish in the previous season.
For the Baby Archers, Enzo Parugganan led with 28 points, supported by John Mindanao with nine points, but their efforts fell short against Adamson’s cohesive team play.
