ROOKIE Joaquin Tovera made an impressive collegiate debut as De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers held off National University (NU) Bulldogs, 89-87, in the second game of the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament opener on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The former Gilas Pilipinas Youth standout led the reigning champions with 22 points, including a three-pointer, to go with three steals, one rebound and one assist for DLSU.
Manuel Luis Pablo contributed 16 points on an efficient 8-of-11 shooting from the field, along with seven rebounds, while Andrei Dungo added 12 points for the reigning champions Green Archers.
La Salle appeared to be in control after Pablo scored on consecutive possessions to give the Green Archers a 78-64 advantage, but the Bulldogs launched a furious comeback that brought them within 84-85.
Dungo answered with a crucial three-pointer to extend La Salle’s lead to 88-84. NU moved within 87-88 after Reinhard Jumamoy converted a basket, but Mason Amos split his free throws to give the Green Archers the final margin.
Kenshin Padrones and Teboi Garcia paced the Bulldogs with 14 points each. Mo Diassana finished with 12 points, while PJ Palacielo added 10 in a narrow defeat. (Adrian Co)
