By Jun Ray Navarres
University of the Philippines relied on a 31-point fourth quarter explosion to secure the 79-75 victory over the Ateneo de Manila University to clinch a twice-to-beat incentive in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament.
Ateneo initially dictated the pace, securing a commanding lead of 21-7 in the opening salvo.
The Fighting Maroons began their slow climb in the second period, narrowing the deficit to nine points, 38-29, heading into the dugout.
The climb continued in the third quarter, with UP reducing the gap to six, 54-48, entering the deciding frame.
Gerry Abadiano delivered a fourth-quarter masterclass, scoring six consecutive points to give the prides of Diliman their first lead, 60-58, with 6:15 left in the game.
The Blue Eagles mounted a final stand, with Kymani Ladi burying a clutch three-pointer to bring the score within two points, 76-74, with 21 seconds left on the clock.
Abadiano then sank two critical free throws, sealing the thrilling victory and crowning UP’s explosive final quarter.
Abadiano emerged as the hero for UP, finishing with 18 points, 16 of which came during the pivotal fourth quarter.
“Lagi lang sinasabi sa amin ni Coach Gold na huwag kaming tumigil. Even may challenges kami nung first half at lumamang sila ng malaki, ang nasa isip lang namin continue lang sa paglalaro, keep on pounding lang,” said UP’s team captain.
Francis Nnrouka dominated inside for UP, posting a double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds, adding four blocks.
On the other end, Jared Bahay paced Ateneo’s offense with a game-high 21 points, while Ladi contributed 17 markers.
The hard-fought win improved UP’s record to 10-3, solidifying its position in the ranking and securing the twice-to-beat incentive heading into the playoffs.
“Securing the twice-to-beat advantage is big for us. Seeing the team bounce back from the first half where I believe we lacked energy, towards the second half the whole team mas nagkaroon ng energy so we just have to keep being consistent sa whatever we did nung second half,” said head coach Goldwin Monteverde.
Ateneo dropped to 5-7, placing its bid for the remaining Final Four spot in serious jeopardy.
The Fighting Maroons’ final elimination round assignment will be a redo of last year finals against the De La Salle Green Archers on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. While the Blue Eagles will try to stay alive in the Final Four race against the Adamson Falcons on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Featured image courtesy of UAAP Media Bureau
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