DLSU’s Resilience Shines in Game 2 Comeback Against UP

Photo: UAAP Media Team

In the face of adversity, the DLSU Green Archers once again proved why they thrive under pressure, pulling off a remarkable comeback against the UP Fighting Maroons in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 Finals. With a tenacious 76-75 victory, La Salle’s grit and preparation came to the forefront, a testament to the leadership of Head Coach Topex Robinson and the emergence of sophomore standout EJ Gollena.

The win not only leveled the series at 1-1 but also underscored the Green Archers’ ability to regroup and respond, despite the challenges they faced.

Preparing for the Grind

For Coach Topex Robinson, physicality was always going to be a deciding factor in this series. He reflected on how their intense practices leading up to Game 2 set the tone for their performance.

“It gave them a preview of how the Finals would be. We know it’s going to be physical and dirty, but we have to make sure we are in control of our emotions,” Robinson shared in an exclusive interview with ALL-STAR.

This approach mirrored their preparation for last year’s Finals when they won Game 2 and ultimately claimed the championship. The intensity in practice, with players pushing each other to the limit, served as a crucial simulation of the high-stakes atmosphere on the court.

The New Era of Archers

DLSU’s roster looks significantly different this season, with seven players experiencing the Finals for the first time: Matthew Rubico, Henry Agunanne, Ethan Alian, Alex Konov, Andrei Dungo, Vhoris Marasigan, and Lian Ramiro.

“[Seven] of those weren’t there during Season 86. You can talk about it – the Finals is physical – but not until you experience it personally, that’s the time you’re going to realize,” Robinson explained.

The ability to reset and adapt after their Game 1 defeat was critical. “That’s the beauty of playing in a series – you have a chance to get your bearings back and recover,” he added.

Robinson also acknowledged that while some veterans remain, each season brings new challenges. “Yes, some of them are still there, but it’s a different beast now, so hindi na naming hinahawakan yun kasi wala na.”

Gollena’s Fearless Rise

One of the key narratives of the finals has been EJ Gollena’s breakout performance. Tasked with major minutes due to Earl Abadam’s ankle injury, the sophomore guard has seized the moment, contributing 20 points in 45 minutes in both games and making crucial plays down the stretch.

“Everything just came from God at this point,” Gollena humbly stated. “I really trust Him and He trusts me. My teammates trust me, my coaches trust me, so I really stepped up to it and took the challenge.”

Gollena’s motivation runs deeper than basketball. His journey into fatherhood this year has given him renewed purpose.

“I’m really inspired to work more and be more. The story of how earlier this year went and now I’m really inspired because of my baby,” he shared.

The Green Archers’ camaraderie has been a cornerstone of their resilience. Gollena emphasized how trust within the team fuels their performance.

“Everyone’s enjoying the moment. Everyone’s trusting. Everyone knows they have each other’s backs and that’s what pushed us to pour our all,” he said.

Eyes on the Decisive Game 3

With the series now tied, both Robinson and Gollena know the importance of recovery and mental preparation for the winner-takes-all Game 3.

“We need to recover right now. It’s been a long season. We’re down to our final game. We just need to prepare mentally,” Gollena noted.

Robinson echoed the sentiment of seizing opportunities when they arise, something his team has embraced.

“What’s important is yung opportunity ngayon. Everybody is knowing that there’s this opportunity waiting for you. When it’s going to happen, we don’t know, I don’t know, but once you see that you have to hold to it for dear life and don’t let it go because if you let it go, somebody else will get it.”