MANILA — University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons moved closer to a sixth consecutive Final Four appearance after overpowering Adamson University Falcons, 82-70, for their sixth straight victory in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament Wednesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Fighting Maroons tightened their grip on the top spot with an 8-2 record, riding a balanced offensive attack and a decisive second-quarter surge to turn back the Falcons.
James Payosing spearheaded UP with 15 points, four rebounds and two steals, while Dikachi Udodo delivered a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Rey Remogat added 12 points, including back-to-back baskets in the closing minutes that sealed the victory, while Elliot Dimaculangan contributed 11 markers.
After a slim 19-17 first-quarter lead, UP seized control with a strong second-period performance to build a 45-31 halftime advantage.
The Fighting Maroons maintained their double-digit cushion, 68-58, entering the fourth quarter before Remogat thwarted Adamson’s comeback attempt with crucial late-game baskets.
Matt Erolon led the Falcons with 20 points, followed by Matthew Montebon with 13. Ray Allen Torres and Mat Edding chipped in 10 apiece as Adamson slipped to 4-6.
Meanwhile, Far Eastern University Tamaraws bolstered their Final Four aspirations with a 94-83 victory over University of the East Red Warriors.
The Tamaraws improved to 6-4, tying De La Salle University for third place behind a balanced scoring effort led by Jorick Bautista’s 18 points.
Kirby Mongcopa and Mo Konateh contributed 15 points each, with Konateh also hauling down 19 rebounds, while Elias Gish added 13 markers./PN
