De La Salle University completes dramatic comeback over UP
De La Salle University’s Archers delivered a signature rally at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, overcoming a 16-point deficit to defeat the University of the Philippines, 87-82, in a UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball showdown. The win not only snapped a troubling stretch but also cemented the Archers’ hold on the No. 4 spot in the standings, signaling their readiness to contend as the regular season nears its close.
Turning point and key moments
The game looked to be tilted in UP’s favor in the early stages as the Maroons constructed a sizable lead behind efficient shooting and stingy defense. But the Archers flipped the script with a relentless second-half push, highlighting their depth, discipline, and resilience. A late third-quarter burst erased the double-digit deficit, setting the tone for a fourth quarter where every possession mattered.
Defensive pressure and transition plays
De La Salle’s defense intensified in the final period, forcing misses and turning those stops into fast-break opportunities. The transition game became a catalyst, with the Archers converting crucial fast-break points that swung momentum their way. The urgency was evident on both ends, from contested shots in the paint to disciplined rotations that kept UP from re-establishing a comfortable rhythm.
Balanced scoring and clutch moments
Despite the absence of a single overwhelming scorer, the Archers rode a balanced attack. Scorers across the roster chipped in, sharing the load and keeping UP guessing on every possession. A sequence of timely baskets in crunch time helped De La Salle seize control late in the fourth, turning the game’s narrative from a potential UP blowout to a nail-biting conclusion that ended with a decisive margin.
What this win means for the Archers
Securing the No. 4 seed in UAAP Season 88 is more than a numeric placement; it reflects the Archers’ growth, especially after a mid-season skid. The team showed maturity in overcoming adversity, a trait coaches have emphasized in recent practices and game plans. With the regular season approaching its final stretch, De La Salle can now focus on tightening defense, refining late-game execution, and building chemistry that translates into postseason success.
Impact on the rest of UAAP Season 88
For UP, the loss is a reminder of the thin margins that define conference play, especially among the top teams competing for semifinals positioning. The result narrows the gap between the contenders and the rest of the field, underscoring how every game matters in the race to the finals. The Archers’ win also injects parity into the league, suggesting that the path to the semifinals could feature more surprises as teams juggle injuries, form, and fatigue late in the season.
Looking ahead
As UAAP Season 88 continues, De La Salle’s ceiling appears higher than ever. If they sustain the energy from this comeback and continue to get balanced contributions, the Archers could pose a formidable challenge in the postseason. For fans, the narrative remains simple: resilience, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of improvement define a team that refuses to back down when the stakes rise.
In a league where the margins are razor-thin, De La Salle’s latest victory is more than just a win—it’s a statement that the Archers are ready to fight for every win, especially when the target is within reach and the clock is ticking toward March.
