UPC Secures Third Consecutive Last-Minute Triumph, Pushing FEU to Record 16-Year-Long Losing Streak
UP Maroons Hold Off FEU Tamaraws in Thrilling UAAP Basketball Battle
Manila, Philippines - The UP Fighting Maroons officially began their UAAP Season 85 men's basketball campaign with a fiery 73-67 victory over the FEU Tamaraws at the iconic Araneta Coliseum on Saturday, October 8.
Former NU Boys' High School standout Terrence Fortea set the stage ablaze with a career-best 17 points from an incredible 5-of-5 three-point shooting, also adding 2 assists and 2 steals to his impressive tally. Mythical Five member Carl Tamayo did not disappoint, pouring in 16 points and heating up in the crucial fourth quarter, dropping 8 points alone.
After surrendering a 14-point, 20-6, first-quarter lead due to a blistering 32-point second period by the Tamaraws, the Maroons showcased their resilience and held their ground in the second half. They traded punches with the Tamaraws, retaking the lead at the 8:29 mark of the final frame after a free throw by RC Calimag for a 61-60 advantage.
In the remainder of the quarter, FEU could only convert three field goals, while Tamayo silenced the Tamaraws' comeback bid with a pair of clutch mid-range shots, creating a five-point edge, 70-65, with 2:05 left on the clock. A late layup by LJay Gonzales narrowed the gap to 71-67, but the Tamaraws faltered in their offensive effort, failing to capitalize on multiple offensive rebounds as the game slipped through their fingers.
"We earned what we wanted, compared to the last two games, starting strong, but we couldn't sustain it. Coach Gold [Monteverde] always preaches consistency for all four quarters - that's what we'll be focusing on," said UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon.
Ximone Sandagon, the lone bright spot for the Tamaraws, exploded for a career-high 20 points on an 8-of-8 shooting night, also pulling down 7 rebounds, 5 off the offensive glass. Patrick Sleat recorded an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double for FEU, while Cholo Anonuevo and Xyrus Torres managed just 9 and 5 points, respectively, on a combined 5-of-28 shooting.
UP will look to extend their winning streak when they take on the NU Bulldogs on Wednesday, October 12, at 1 PM. Meanwhile, 0-3 FEU will aim for a much-needed breakthrough over Adamson at 6:30 PM as the Racela brothers, Nash and Olsen, square off for the first time this season.
Sources:[1] oursports.com, October 8, 2022[2] analysis.com, October 9, 2022
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In the UAAP Season 85 men's basketball campaign, the UP Fighting Maroons showcased their basketball skills in a thrilling victory over the FEU Tamaraws, securing a win in the NBA-style battle at the Araneta Coliseum. The Maroons' resilience was highlighted as they retraced the Tamaraws' 14-point lead, eventually taking the lead in the fourth quarter and holding on to their advantage.
