Manila: De La Salle University secured an 87-77 win over top-ranked National University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, ensuring a decisive rubber match in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball semifinal series.
According to Philippines News Agency, Jacob Cortez was instrumental for the fourth-seeded Green Archers, contributing 13 points, four assists, and two steals. Mike Phillips added a significant performance with 12 points, 17 rebounds, and two blocks. With this victory, La Salle aims to clinch a Finals berth in the upcoming Game 2 on Saturday.
Key players Kean Baclaan, returning from an MCL injury, and EJ Gollena, back from suspension, bolstered La Salle's lineup. Head coach Topex Robinson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to extend the series, emphasizing the team's determination to face the No. 1 ranked opponent.
The Green Archers, led by Mason Amos, JC Macalalag, and Cortez, widened their lead to 71-54 in the fourth quarter. Cortez acknowledged the impact of returning players, noting the significant contributions from Amos and Baclaan during the game.
Additional contributions came from Gollena and Vhoris Marasigan, who scored 11 and 10 points, respectively. Macalalag and Pablo each added nine points, while Amos contributed eight points with crucial triples in the final quarter. For NU, Figueroa led with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, followed by Omar John with 12 points and five rebounds.
In women's basketball, defending champions NU edged out Ateneo 67-66, setting up a finals clash with the undefeated University of Santo Tomas. The Lady Bulldogs, holding a 12-2 record, secured their 11th consecutive championship appearance.
NU's comeback featured a 9-1 run by Ann Pingol, Tin Cayabyab, and Marga Villanueva to tie the score at 66, with a minute left. Angel Surada's free throw secured the win, dedicating the victory to coach DA Olan. Surada recorded 15 points, eight rebounds, six steals, two assists, and one block.
NU's head coach DA Olan praised the team's resilience, highlighting their refusal to quit despite challenges. Villanueva led NU with 16 points, including four triples, while Cayabyab and Pingol added 15 and 10 points, respectively.
For Ateneo, Kacey dela Rosa and Camille Malagar each scored 18 points. Dela Rosa also contributed 22 rebounds and six assists, while Malagar recorded six rebounds and two steals, as the Blue Eagles finished third after three consecutive fourth-place finishes.
