The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons (UP) inched closer to the UAAP Season 86 men's basketball championship title by defeating the De La Salle University Green Archers (DLSU) in a lopsided 97-67 Game 1 victory on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Fighting Maroons dominated the game from start to finish, putting an end to the Green Archers' nine-game winning streak. UP's defense limited DLSU's usual offensive production, holding Season 86 runaway MVP Kevin Quiambao to just 11 points.
UP's Balanced Attack
UP had a balanced attack with six players scoring in double digits, led by MVP candidate Carl Justine Alarcon with 21 points. Rookie of the Year Francis Lopez also had a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds. JD Cagulangan and Gerry Abadiano chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively.
UP's Defense Shines
Malick Diouf and Aldous Torculas were both relentless on the defensive end, grabbing 15 and 10 rebounds, respectively, to go with nine points each.
UP Takes Control in the Second Half
UP pulled away for good in the second half, building a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter. The Fighting Maroons were dominant in all facets of the game, outscoring DLSU 53-23 in the second half.
Looking Ahead
The Fighting Maroons can clinch the championship with a win in Game 2 of the Finals, which will be held on December 3 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde: "I guess 'yung team really executed the game plan. We just have to sustain this (since) it's not won in just one game, it's seroes. We just have to know what to work on and be ready for them in the next game."
DLSU head coach Derrick Pumaren: "We're not used to losing like this, but we'll take it on the chin. We'll learn from our mistakes and we'll come back stronger in Game 2."
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