De La Salle University breathed a sigh of relief after escaping with a thrilling 76-75 victory over the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball finals. The win forced a decisive Game 3, keeping the Green Archers’ hopes of a championship repeat alive.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets throughout the contest. However, it was La Salle that made the crucial plays down the stretch. With the game tied at 73-73, Kevin Quiambao, the two-time MVP, drained a clutch three-pointer to give the Green Archers a 76-73 lead. UP had a chance to tie the game or take the lead, but Gerry Abadiano’s potential game-winning three-pointer missed the mark.
Quiambao finished with a game-high 22 points, including two crucial three-pointers. Mike Phillips also played a significant role, contributing 18 points and 12 rebounds. Other key contributors for La Salle were JC Macalalag and EJ Gollena, who added nine points each.
For UP, Carl Tamayo, Zavier Lucero, and Gerry Abadiano led the scoring with 16 points each. Quentin Millora-Brown added 11 points. Despite their valiant effort, the Fighting Maroons fell short and will now have to regroup for the do-or-die Game 3.
This victory marked a significant turnaround for La Salle, who had lost the series opener. The Green Archers displayed resilience and determination, fighting back from a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter.
The series will now culminate in a thrilling Game 3 on Sunday, December 15, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Both teams will be eager to claim the UAAP Season 87 championship.
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