La Salle rallies to topple UP, cement No. 4 seed
In a dramatic finish at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the DLSU Green Archers overturned a 16-point deficit to defeat the UP Fighting Maroons, 87-82, and strengthen their grip on the No. 4 spot in UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball. The win highlighted the resilience that has become a hallmark of the Archers this season as they weathered a cold start and surged in the second half to claim a crucial victory in the standings.
Turning point: A second-half surge
The Maroons controlled much of the opening quarters, pushing ahead behind a mix of aggressive drives and timely outside shooting. But La Salle’s defense tightened as the game progressed, and the offense found its rhythm in the third period. A stretch of sustained defensive stops translated into fast-break opportunities and efficient scoring, turning the tide in favor of the Archers. By the time the final frame rolled around, the momentum had firmly shifted, and UP struggled to regain its footing against a more composed La Salle squad.
Key contributors lift the Archers
Led by an efficient backcourt duo and a frontline that battled for every rebound, La Salle found multiple sources of offense to complement its defense. The guards delivered timely triples and drives to the basket, while bigs pounced on second-chance opportunities to keep the scoring clock ticking. Even as UP flirted with a late push, the Archers’ balanced attack provided enough firepower to stave off a potential collapse and close out the win in crunch time.
What the win means for the standings
Securing the No. 4 seed is a strategic milestone for La Salle as the UAAP Season 88 regular season progresses toward the postseason. A reliable mid-table position not only offers a favorable path in the bracket but also signals that the Archers are peaking at the right moment. For UP, the loss is a setback in their pursuit of a top seed, prompting continued adjustments on both ends of the floor as they aim to sustain playoff contention.
Player notes and team dynamics
La Salle’s balanced scoring attack was a talking point after the game. The contributions from the backcourt, combined with interior presence, created a dynamic that UP found difficult to contain in the latter stages. The team’s chemistry and resilience were on full display as players stepped up when it mattered most, reinforcing a growing narrative about the Archers’ depth and experience this season.
Looking ahead
With their No. 4 seed now fortified, La Salle can approach the upcoming matchups with added confidence, knowing they can win in different ways—whether through a late defensive stand or a high-pace offensive stretch. The victory also serves as a reminder that in UAAP Season 88, the race for playoff spots can hinge on timely runs and collective effort, not just individual brilliance.
