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How the UP Maroons Drew First Blood Against DLSU

Photo sources: UAAP Media Team

The UP Fighting Maroons are now just one win away from reclaiming UAAP glory after a hard-fought 73-65 victory over the DLSU Green Archers in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball Finals. Despite being out-rebounded 48-37, UP’s incredible defensive performance in the second half and efficient execution in limiting what La Salle likes to do spearheaded their triumph.

Defensive Brilliance: UP’s Game-Changer

The story of the game was UP’s defensive effort in the second half. After trailing by 4 points at the break, the Maroons tightened up their defense, particularly in the third quarter, where they held La Salle scoreless for the first 6 minutes and 45 seconds. UP’s defenders were masterful at anticipating DLSU’s offensive sets, forcing the Green Archers into rushed, inefficient, and contested shot attempts late in the shot clock. The result was a suffocating performance that neutralized the reigning champions’ rhythm and offensive flow.

DLSU’s shooting struggles were evident, finishing the game with a field goal percentage of just 34.7%. The Archers’ uncertainty with their substitution patterns also played into UP’s hands, as they failed to establish offensive consistency in the second half.

Quiambao Silenced by UP’s Tactical Mastery

Kevin Quiambao, the Green Archers’ MVP, was unstoppable in the first half, scoring 18 points. However, UP’s second-half adjustments were pivotal, as Quiambao managed just one more point—a technical free throw—after halftime. Rookie Jacob Bayla was instrumental in Quiambao’s struggles, using his 6-foot-5 frame and relentless defense to deny him space and stifle his drives. UP’s collective effort to crowd Quiambao led to frustration and turnovers; the La Salle standout finished with 6 giveaways.

With Quiambao locked down, DLSU needed other players to step up, but outside of EJ Gollena, Mike Phillips, and CJ Austria, the Green Archers lacked reliable offensive contributions.

QMB Dominates on Both Ends

For UP, Quentin Millora-Brown delivered a Gillas-call-up-worthy performance. He was a force in the paint, scoring efficiently, protecting the rim, and neutralizing Phillips by denying him easy baskets. QMB’s tenacity on the boards kept multiple possessions alive, giving UP crucial second-chance opportunities. His presence on defense disrupted La Salle’s interior game and set the tone for the Maroons’ second-half surge.

Mature Performances from UP’s Backcourt

JD Cagulangan was the steady floor general UP needed, orchestrating plays and maintaining composure throughout the game. Meanwhile, Francis Lopez displayed a mature and composed performance, driving to the rim and playing lockdown defense rather than settling for jump shots. Gerry Abadiano also came through in the clutch, hitting timely daggers to keep La Salle at bay.

Though UP shot just 39.4% overall and struggled from beyond the arc (4-of-21), their efficiency inside (22-of-45 from two-point range, or 49%) and relentless defensive pressure made the difference.

Turning the Tide

Heading into Game 1, La Salle had won five of their last six meetings with UP. However, this time, the Maroons dictated the tempo and controlled the game’s flow, particularly in the second half. By forcing 18 DLSU turnovers while committing only 11 themselves, UP capitalized on every mistake, flipping the game’s momentum in their favor.

The Green Archers, typically composed under pressure, were rattled by UP’s aggressive defense and tactical discipline. The defending champions will need to recalibrate their offense and find answers for UP’s swarming defense to force a decisive Game 3.

What’s Next

With Game 2 looming, the UP Fighting Maroons have the upper hand and the confidence to close out the series. After a near-flawless season, La Salle is in the brink of elimination. However, the DLSU Green Archers, led by a determined Quiambao, are expected to come back with adjustments and a stronger resolve. They’ve been in this situation before – backs against the wall.

If UP continues to play with the same defensive intensity and composure, they are poised to clinch the UAAP Season 87 title and celebrate a hard-earned championship.