De La Salle defies deficit, rallies past UP
De La Salle University pulled off a dramatic comeback to beat the University of the Philippines, 87-82, and solidify its grip on the No. 4 seed in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. The Archers, who trailed by as many as 16 points, surged back in the second half behind a balanced scoring attack and disciplined defense to complete a pivotal push at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Key moments that turned the game
Early on, UP took control with crisp ball movement and timely shooting, building momentum that stretched into a double-digit lead. The Maroons looked poised to derail De La Salle’s season, but the Archers refused to fold. A late-second-quarter burst from the Archers narrowed the gap, setting the stage for a tense third and fourth period.
In the third frame, De La Salle’s defense intensified, forcing misses and converting transition opportunities into points. The Archers found their rhythm from the perimeter and at the rim, punctuating the quarter with a run that shifted the scoreboard in their favor. The intensity didn’t drop in the final period, as the Archers maintained composure and answered every UP push with timely baskets and key stops.
Depth, balance fuel the win
De La Salle showcased a balanced scoring attack, with multiple players stepping up in crucial moments. The team’s bench provided valuable contributions, helping the Archers sustain their pressure while UP tried to weather the storm. The win underscored the Archers’ resilience and their commitment to sealing a favorable playoff position late in the season.
What this means for UAAP Season 88 standings
With the victory, De La Salle strengthens its grip on the No. 4 seed, creating distance from challengers in the standings as the regular season nears its end. For UP, the setback is a reminder of the discipline and consistency needed to climb the ladder in a tightly packed leaderboard. The result also keeps alive a potential shakeup as remaining games could alter seedings and byes for the playoff round.
Momentum and future implications
The Archers head into the closing stretch of the UAAP season with renewed confidence, buoyed by a win that showcased depth, execution, and mental toughness. If they maintain this trajectory, De La Salle could carry momentum into the postseason, using this victory as a platform to sharpen their rotations and defensive schemes against a suite of strong contenders.
Coach’s perspective and player notes
From the sidelines, coaches highlighted the team’s ability to stay composed and execute late in the game. Leaders on the floor rallied teammates, balancing scoring with defensive communication. For fans, the performance offered a reassuring glimpse of a well-rounded squad that can adapt to different tempos and opponents throughout UAAP Season 88.
What’s next for both teams
The Archers will look to sustain their form as the season moves toward its climax, with playoff positioning at stake in every remaining game. UP will regroup, focusing on shot selection, defensive communication, and finishing through contact as they chase a more favorable seed in the closing weeks of UAAP Season 88.
