Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 11) — The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons survived a valiant stand by the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in overtime, 80-76, to remain undefeated in UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Janjan Felicilda tallied 17 points and four rebounds, while CJ Cansino finished with 14 points for the Fighting Maroons.
Trailing by three points, Jorick Bautista knocked down a clutch triple to tie the score at 68 with 30.3 seconds left in the fourth quarter.
Francis Lopez’s game-winner in regulation for UP was ruled out due to Malick Diouf’s offensive interference.
The Fighting Maroons showed composure in the extra period as the Tamaraws struggled to convert in their possessions.
“As Coach Gold always says, as the season progresses every game is a chance for us to improve,” UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon said in a post-match press conference.
Diouf delivered another double-double outing for the Fighting Maroons with 11 points and 20 rebounds.
Bautista tallied a game-high 26 points for FEU to go along with three rebounds.
UP will next battle the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers on Oct. 14, while the Tamaraws take on the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on the same day.
