MANILA — University of the East Red Warriors ended more than two years of frustration in dramatic fashion, shutting down Adamson University Soaring Falcons in the final quarter to pull off a stunning 53-47 upset and snap a 30-game losing streak in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Red Warriors unleashed a suffocating defensive effort in the fourth quarter, limiting the Falcons to just three points to finally break through after a prolonged winless stretch dating back to October 2024.
The victory gave UE its first win in 11 games this season and ended a drought that began after its 74-58 triumph over National University more than two years ago.
Mo Tanedo and Toper Lagat powered the Red Warriors’ breakthrough with 14 points apiece, while JM Edoukou delivered a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds.
Determined to end their losing streak, the Red Warriors stormed to a 21-11 first-quarter lead before Adamson mounted a comeback.
The Falcons tightened their defense in the second period, holding UE to seven points while scoring 13 to trim the deficit to 28-24 at halftime.
Adamson sustained its offensive surge in the third quarter, outscoring UE, 20-18, to narrow the gap to 46-44 entering the final period.
But just when the Falcons appeared poised to complete their comeback, the Red Warriors slammed the door shut.
UE’s defense held Adamson to a miserable three-point output in the final 10 minutes, while the Red Warriors scored seven points to preserve their hard-earned victory.
Manu Anabo finished with 14 points for Adamson, while Monty Montebon added 10 as the Falcons slipped to a 4-7 record.
Meanwhile, University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons secured their eighth consecutive Final Four appearance after defeating archrival Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, 82-74.
The Fighting Maroons improved to 9-2, strengthening their grip on the top spot in the standings while officially securing a semifinals berth.
Veejay Pre spearheaded UP’s offense with 16 points, while Reiner Maga earned Player of the Game honors after contributing 13 points, three rebounds and two assists.
Elliot Dimaculangan also scored 13 points, while Dikachi Udodo chipped in 10 as the Fighting Maroons overcame a difficult start to turn back the Blue Eagles.
Kieffer Alas led Ateneo with 14 points, while Jared Bahay added 13 as the Blue Eagles dropped to 5-6./PN
