Steve Pinauin/UAAP Season 89 Media Team
The De La Salle Green Archers bounced back from a narrow three-point loss to Adamson University last Sunday, securing a crucial 97-88 overtime victory over the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors to open the second round of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday, 21 October.
La Salle controlled the game in the first half, building a 40-29 lead heading into the break before UE found its rhythm in the third quarter and erased the deficit.
The Green Archers also had to overcome the loss of star guard Jacob Cortes, who suffered an injury in the middle of the game. Despite the setback, La Salle's remaining players stepped up to keep the team in contention and eventually secure the overtime win.
Lance Sabroso gave UE a six-point cushion with 6:10 remaining in the fourth quarter after converting an and-one play, but the Green Archers fought back to keep the game within reach.
With La Salle holding a two-point lead and UE in possession with 15 seconds remaining, Toper Lagat came up with a crucial steal and tied the game at 74-all to force overtime.
The Green Archers seized control in the extra period, outscoring the Red Warriors to secure the nine-point victory, 97-88.
Mason Amos led La Salle with 17 points and nine rebounds, while Macalalag added 14 points off the bench. Five Green Archers finished in double figures.
Lagat paced UE with 20 points and six steals, while Sabroso contributed 18 points off the bench. Momo Tanedo added 16 points, but their efforts were not enough to overcome La Salle.
With the win, the Green Archers improved to a 4-4 record but remained sixth in the standings.
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