By Jun Ray Navarres
De La Salle University opened its second round with an emphatic demolition of the University of Santo Tomas, 100-69, at the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Green Archers cut Growling Tigers’ celebration from their win against the Tamaraws last Sunday.
Leading MVP runner Kevin Quiambao dealt UST their 7th loss behind his 22 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, five steals, and one block to score their second straight win.
“Focused kami kung ano ‘yong nasa harap namin and ‘yong pagkakamali namin no’ng first round marami kaming natutunan doon. Coming into the second round, kailangan namin mag-adjust, kailangan pa namin mag stick more to the system,” said Quiambao.
Also, Jonnel Policarpio went above and beyond for the Green Archers, providing 14 baskets, 11 boards, fives dimes, one steal, and one block in just 16 minutes and 12 seconds inside the court.
Third big man Raven Cortez tallied 13 points and three blocks for the Green Archers.
“The first round kinda gave us a back view of where we are sa team already. There’s a lot of challenges during those first rounds, but I guess what’s good about this coming into the second round is we’re able to look at where we could improve on,” said DLSU head coach Topex Robinson.
“Every game will really matter and you wanna make sure to set the tone right off the bat.”
DLSU overpowered UST in every aspect of the game – rebounds (53-37), assists (30-19), steals (14-8), perimeter scoring (47-22), and bench scoring (60-34).
The Taft-based team will look to win their third straight game on Sunday against National University in a revenge match after the bitter loss in overtime in their first meeting.
Nic Cabañero led the Tigers 13 points, six assists, and five rebounds for the the España-based squad. Christian Manaytay added 10 points and four rebounds.
Featured photo courtesy of UAAP
Photo Gallery at https://www.facebook.com/BurnDotPh/
Follow the writer on X: @burnsports
