Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 11) — With their backs against the wall, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons kept their Final Four bid alive after crushing the National University (NU) Bulldogs, 106-81, Saturday afternoon at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Paul Desidero paved the way for the Fighting Maroons to dominate NU with game-high 30 points and seven rebounds.
Jun Manzo and Juan Gomez de Liano spearheaded UP’s spirited attack as they took a 34-21 advantage at the end of the opening quarter.
The Fighting Maroons were able to keep the Bulldogs at bay in the second frame by continuing to drive strong to the basket.
With UP clicking on all cylinders, the Diliman-based squad pulled away and built an 84-60 lead going into the payoff period.
NU tried to stage a comeback but it could not convert on the offensive end in the final frame.
The Gomez de Liano brothers Juan and Javier chipped in 22 points and 17 points for the Fighting Maroons, respectively.
Import Issa Gaye led the Bulldogs with 25 markers and ten boards.
UP is hoping that the Adamson Soaring Falcons will beat the Far Eastern University Tamaraws today to force a playoff for the last Final Four spot.
