UAAP: La Salle secures top seed with repeat win over UP

Metro Manila, Philippines — The De La Salle University Green Archers reasserted their mastery over the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 77-66, in their second round clash in UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Reigning Season and Finals Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao led the way for the Green Archers with 15 points, five rebounds, and three assists.

Things were looking bright for the Fighting Maroons as they held onto a three-point advantage at the halftime break.

But it was all La Salle in the second half as the Taft-based squad hit UP with blow after blow to secure the victory.

The Fighting Maroons played without big man Quentin Millora-Brown who is currently in the US to attend the wake of his grandfather.

Mike Phillips, in his usual energetic self, helped the Green Archers with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

La Salle notched its ninth straight win this season and fourth consecutive triumph against UP.

The Green Archers officially clinched the top spot, while the Fighting Maroons occupy the second seed. Both teams will be with a twice-to-beat incentive in the Final Four.

JD Cagulangan had a game-high 22 points along with six rebounds and five assists for UP.

La Salle will try to continue its dominance against the National University Bulldogs on Nov. 13 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons will face the Far Eastern University Tamaraws on Nov. 16 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.