UAAP: La Salle weathers UP rally to grab top spot at end of first round

Metro Manila, Philippines — In the highly-anticipated finals rematch, the De La Salle University Green Archers reasserted their mastery over the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 68-56, on Sunday in UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Reigning Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao led the attack for the Green Archers with 20 points and 10 rebounds.

The Fighting Maroons crawled their way back from a 20-point deficit in the second half.

La Salle went on a 10-2 run highlighted by a dagger three-pointer by Quiambao to seal the win for La Salle.

Outside shooting was the difference in the match as the Green Archers converted 11, while UP only had two.

Joshua David added 14 points and seven rebounds for La Salle.

Harold Alarcon paced the Fighting Maroons with 19 markers and five boards.

The Green Archers now occupy the top spot in the team standings with a 6-1 win-loss record, while making sure there is no stepladder in the playoffs after putting a halt to UP’s six-game winning streak.