UAAP: UP downs UE for fourth straight win

The University of the Philippines extended its winning streak to four after a 70–61 victory over the University of the East on Saturday in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Fighting Maroons started strong, finishing the first quarter with a 19–8 lead before cruising to their biggest advantage, 59–33, after Gani Stevens completed a three-point play with 2:29 left in the third period.

From there, UP held off the Red Warriors despite the latter’s 10-point run to close the fourth quarter.

Sean Alter posted a career-high 13 points along with six rebounds, two blocks, and an assist, while Francis Nnoruka tallied 16 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four blocks, and a steal. Gerry Abadiano also contributed 10 points as UP spoiled the return of head coach Chris Gavina from a four-game suspension.

Tope Lagat led UE with 21 points, while Wello Lingolingo added 11 points and eight rebounds. Precious Momowei, meanwhile, was limited to four points but grabbed 12 rebounds.

With the win, UP improved to 7–3 to solidify its hold on second place, while UE remained winless at 0–10.

Scores:

UP 70 – Nnoruka 16, Alter 13, Abadiano 10, Fortea 6, Remogat 5, Alarcon 4, Coronel 4, Belmonte 4, Stevens 3, Bayla 3, Palanca 2, Yñiguez 0, Briones 0, Andres 0, Torres 0, Felicilda 0.

UE 61 – Lagat 21, Lingolingo 11, Despi 9, Malaga 6, Momowei 4, Distrito 4, Datumalim 3, Cabero 2, Mulingtapang 1, Rosete 0, Robles 0, Jimenez 0.

Quarters: 19-8, 44-25, 60-40, 70-61.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News