Falcons uses bench mob to stun NU; stays alive in F4 race
Date Posted: November 17, 2023 at 04:35 PM
The Soaring Falcons remain in the running for a Final Four slot after scoring a crucial victory over second-seeded National University in the UAAP 86 Men’s Basketball Tournament, November 15 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
With the win, Adamson improved their record to 6-7, just one-game behind Ateneo de Manila University. Adamson, though, needs to win against the University of the East this November 19 and Ateneo must lose to De La Salle University this November 18 to secure a playoff for the final spot in the postseason.
NU led early in the first quarter but back-to-back three point makes from Mathew Montebon pushed the San Marcelino crew to the lead which they never surrendered ‘til the end of the game. The Bulldogs tried to mount several comeback attempts but the Falcons found ways to answer every time.
The Falcons closed the first half with a seven-point lead, but it was quickly erased by NU come the third frame off early hits from Kean Baclaan.
However, Eli Ramos’ playmaking abilities went to full display late in the same quarter, directing a run for his team and re-establishing a double-digit lead at 00-00.
Adamson’s lead was once again cut to three, at 52-55, but timely hits from Didat Hanapi and OJ Ojarikre restored the Falcons’ lead to eight with 5:14 left in the final frame, 60-52.
Adamson then went on to arrest another counter-run by their foes and secure the game.
The Falcons outscored NU in their bench points, 50-12, and outrebounded the latter, 42-34.
Despite missing lead guard Joem Sabandal, Nash Racela’s wards found a way to bag the W as Didat Hanapi stepped up for the Falcons with 13 points and six rebounds.
Mathew Montebon contributed 12 markers, six boards and five assists, while Ced Manzano had 12 points, three rebounds and two blocks.
The Scores:
Adamson 68 – Hanapi 13, Montebon 12, Manzano 12, Ramos 7, Ojarikre 7, Yerro 6, Erolon 4, Calisay 3, Magbuhos 2, Barasi 2, Colonia 0, Barcelona 0, Anabo 0, Cañete 0.
NU 62 – Baclaan 24, Figueroa 13, Lim 6, Palacielo 5, John 5, Yu 4, Malonzo 2, Manansala 2, Jumamoy 1, Padrones 0.
Quarterscores: 25-17, 40-33, 50-42, 68-62.
