Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 8) — The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons escaped a gritty University of the East Red Warriors side, 79-72, in UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
With the victory, the Fighting Maroons are moving on to the Final Four for the fifth straight season.
After being sidelined in their previous outing due to an injured wrist, Malick Diouf returned to action as he led UP with 19 points and 15 rebounds.
The Fighting Maroons were looking to pull away in the second half, but the Red Warriors maintained their composure and even tied the score at 69 in the final frame.
UP came with enough firepower in the endgame to secure its ninth win in 11 matches.
CJ Cansino finished with 17 points and three rebounds, while JD Cagulangan chipped in eight points for the Fighting Maroons.
Jack Cruz-Dumont paced UE with 19 markers, five boards, and three dimes.
UP will next tackle the Far Eastern University Tamaraws on Nov. 11, while the Red Warriors will battle the De La Salle University Green Archers on Nov. 12. Both games will be held at the Big Dome.
