UAAP: La Salle averts collapse vs gritty UST in overtime
Metro Manila, Philippines — The De La Salle University Green Archers needed five extra minutes to beat the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, 84-87, in overtime in their second round encounter in UAAP Season 87 men's basketball on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Reigning Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao erupted for a new career-high 29 points to go along with nine rebounds, and three assists for the Green Archers.
La Salle was flexing its might as it led by as many as 20 points halfway through the second period, 40-20, before the Growling Tigers roared back with a huge fourth quarter comeback.
The Green Archers then relied on their championship composure and clamped down on defense resulting in UST just scoring seven points in overtime.
“We were not surprised on how UST played. We always remind ourselves that every team will go all out competing against us. We made a lot of mistakes down the line, it’s just another opportunity for us to learn,” La Salle head coach Topex Robinson said in a press conference.
Mike Phillips had another double outing for the Green Archers with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
La Salle remained on top of the team standings at 8-1.
Nic Cabanero tallied 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Forthsky Padrigao posted 15 points for the Growling Tigers.
UST maintained its spot at fourth with a 4-5 win-loss record.
The Green Archers will next battle the Adamson University Soaring Falcons, while the Growling Tigers tackle the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on Oct. 19 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.
