The Adamson University made an unstoppable run over the University of Santo Tomas to clinch their first win in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament, 88-81 on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Growling Tigers were forced to make 41 turnovers, which led to 31 Adamson points.
“I have to give credit to our player, the 41 turnovers is a testament to the defense our players put on,” said Coach Franz Pumaren.
UST did not easily back down, as they went on a 14-4 run to cut Adamson’s lead to five, 85-80 in the final five minutes of the game, but it was not enough to put the Falcons down.
“We’re still struggling and we made a lot of mistakes down the stretch, so I have to give credit to UST for playing hard,” noted Pumaren.
Robbie Manalang led Adamson with 19 points, four rebounds and five assists, while Kurt Lojera added 16 points in the win to help the Falcons improved to a 1-1 slate.
Meanwhile, Papi Sarr returned on the court, after recovering from a groin injury. He added 10 points and four rebounds for the win.
Jeepy Faundo paced the Tigers, on the other hand, with a double-double record of 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Jordan Sta. Ana added 14 points.
Team captain Marvin Lee was limited to 14 points, after committing nine turnovers of his own, while Steve Akomo chipped in another double with 10 points and 15 rebounds, but he still committed seven errors for the lost.
The Growling Tigers remains winless after two games.
