UAAP: UP grounds Adamson to clinch seventh straight Final Four berth

The University of the Philippines notched its fifth straight win in UAAP Season 88 action, defeating Adamson University, 70–65, on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons booked their ticket to the Final Four for the seventh consecutive year, and their fifth straight under head coach Goldwin Monteverde.

Graduating guard Gerry Abadiano paced the Katipunan-based squad with 16 points, while big man Francis Nnoruka anchored the paint with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Last season’s defending champions came out to a flying start, holding Adamson to single digits, 20–8.

Despite a slow start, the Soaring Falcons slowly chipped away at UP’s lead over the next two quarters, entering the final frame down by just six points, 50–44.

Undeterred by the threat of an Adamson comeback, UP converted timely shots, highlighted by Reyland Torres’ five straight points that pushed the lead to eight with two minutes left, 65–57.

Now making the playoffs for the fourth straight year under his tutelage, UP mentor Monteverde tempered his feelings about their achievement, saying it is only one part of the bigger picture for his squad.

“Every time naman na may ma-achieve kami na goal, siyempre masaya kami for that. But understanding that it is just part of the journey ng [ultimate] goal namin.”

On the other hand, Ray Allan Torres waxed hot for Adamson, notching a game-high 23 points. The Soaring Falcons look to stay within striking distance of a coveted playoff spot when they go head-to-head with De La Salle University on the same date.

Scores:

UP - Abadiano 16, Nnorouka 16, Alarcon 8, Stevens, 7, Torres 7, Fortea 5, Bayla 4, Remogat 4, Yniguez 3, Alter 0, Belmonte 0, Palanca 0.

Adamson - Torres 23, Erolon 19, Manzano 8, Montebon 8, Fransman 7, Anabo 0, Medina 0, Ojarike 0, Perez 0, Tumaneng 0, A. Ronzone 0, C. Ronzone 0.

Quarters: 20-8, 36-27, 50-44, 70-65.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News