De La Salle University and University of the Philippines are gearing up for a thrilling showdown in the decider of the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball best-of-three Finals series. The highly-anticipated Game 3 will take place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today.
This is the first-ever finals series between La Salle and UP, adding to the excitement surrounding the match. The game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m., and the Big Dome is expected to be filled to the brim once again, following the massive 20,863 gate attendance in Game 2.
La Salle, determined to bounce back from their 97-67 loss in Game 1, delivered a resounding 82-60 victory in Game 2. Season Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao and Mythical Team member Evan Nelle led the charge, with support from Francis Escandor and Joshua David, who found their rhythm in the first half and played a crucial role in the Green Archers’ dominant win.
Coach Topex Robinson emphasized the importance of embracing the pressure that comes with such a high-stakes game. As he aims for his first-ever championship at the collegiate level, Robinson believes that pressure is a privilege and a necessary challenge on the path to greatness.
On the other hand, the Fighting Maroons are determined to prove their resilience and reclaim the glory they lost to the Ateneo Blue Eagles last season. They are vying for their fourth overall title and are eager to showcase their bounce-back abilities in Game 3.
In Game 2, energy and desire seemed to be the key issues for UP, particularly in the rebounding department. La Salle outperformed them with a 58-46 rebounding advantage, including an 11-19 disparity in offensive boards. As a result, the Fighting Maroons only managed to gain four second chance points compared to the Green Archers’ 16.
UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde acknowledged the team’s lack of energy and emphasized the need to learn from their mistakes. He highlighted La Salle’s dominance in rebounding and the importance of securing 50-50 balls. Additionally, UP struggled in the assists department, being outplayed by La Salle with an 8-21 disadvantage.
Despite the setbacks, Monteverde and the Fighting Maroons are not making excuses or dwelling on the past. They are focused on Game 3 and determined to give their best performance to secure the championship. Monteverde believes that their chance to win the title is still within reach and that they will learn from their mistakes.
Meanwhile, the women’s basketball best-of-three Finals series between the defending champions NU Lady Bulldogs and the UST Growling Tigresses has also reached its climax. NU will be aiming for their eighth consecutive championship, while UST is eager to claim their first title in 17 years. The decisive Game 3 is scheduled for 12 p.m. at the Big Dome.
As the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball Finals and women’s basketball Finals both head into Game 3, fans from all over the country and beyond eagerly await the outcome. The intensity, passion, and skill displayed by the teams have captivated audiences, making this a memorable season for basketball enthusiasts.
Source: The Manila Times
