Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 4) — The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons flexed their might against host school University of the East (UE) Red Warriors, 84-69, in UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Reigning league Most Valuable Player Malick Diouf posted a double-double performance witn 19 points and 16 rebounds to go with three blocks as the Fighting Maroons took a 2-0 win-loss slate.
A scorching hot 32-9 start in the first period was all UP needed to dictate the pace and dominate the rest of the way.
“We saw how UE played against UST and they were able to execute on halfcourt and in transition. Our advantage in this is the composure of our team,” said UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon in a post-game press conference.
CJ Cansino delivered another productive numbers for the Fighting Maroons with 17 points, four rebounds, and two assists.
Precious Momowei dropped a team-high 12 points and 22 rebounds for the Red Warriors as they absorbed their first setback in two matches.
UP will next clash with the dangerous National University Bulldogs on Oct. 7, while UE battles the Far Eastern University Tamaraws on the same day.
