UP captures second UAAP title in four seasons

Metro Manila, Philippines — After failing to bring home the UAAP men’s basketball crown in Game 3 of the finals twice in a row, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons were finally triumphant in their third attempt.

The Fighting Maroons outlasted the De La Salle University Green Archers, 66-62, in the Season 87 do-or-die title match on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Quentin Millora-Brown powered UP with 14 points on 50 percent shooting and 10 rebounds in front of over 25,000 people in attendance.

Francis Lopez made up for his late miscues in Game 2 and knocked down the crucial three-pointer to extend the Fighting Maroons’ lead, 64-60, with 1:12 left in the final quarter. He finished the match with 12 points along with 11 rebounds.

Graduating UP guard JD Cagulangan capped off his collegiate career with 12 points, four assists, and three steals. He was named the Finals Most Valuable Player.

This was the Fighting Maroons’ fourth overall championship.

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Mike Phillips paced the Green Archers with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while back-to-back season MVP Kevin Quiambao tallied 13 points and four rebounds.