The mayhem is back as De La Salle University hands Ateneo its first loss in the UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament with a come from behind win, 79-76, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Green Archers stopped the Blue Eagles from an elimination round sweep after a late run in the fourth quarter.
Ben Mbala and Ricci Rivero led the Green Archers on a 10-0 run in the last 2:24 of the game.
Anton Asistio could have tied the game, but Rivero was there to block the potential basket. Isaac Go’s attempt to keep Ateneo back in the last 10 ticks also failed as La Salle celebrated the victory.
“We got lucky in the end game, especially Isaac Go’s semi hook. It was uncontested, but luckily, it did not go in. I have to commend the players for their effort, for sticking to the game plan especially during the end game,” said La Salle coach Aldin Ayo, who finally attended the post-game press conference.
Mbala led the Green Archers with a double-double record of 28 points and 19 rebounds, along with six steals and six blocks, while Rivero had 21 points and five rebounds.
Thirdy Ravena topped the Blue Eagles with 15 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block, while Go chipped in 13 points, six rebounds and five assists.
La Salle (12-2) and Ateneo (13-1) both gained a twice-to-beat advantage as the Final Four begins on Saturday. DLSU will take on Adamson University, while Ateneo will challenge the Far Eastern Umiversity.
The Scores:
La Salle 79 – Mbala 28, R. Rivero 21, Tratter 8, Santillan 7, Melecio 6, Montalbo 6, Go 3, Caracut 0, P. Rivero 0, Baltazar 0, Paraiso 0.
