UNIVERSITY of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons overcame a slow start to defeat Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles, 94-75, in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
James Payosing spearheaded the offense with 18 points, including two three-pointers, as the Fighting Maroons opened their redemption season with a 2-0 win-loss slate.
Rey Remogat added 14 markers, Francis Nnoruka contributed 12 points and 13 rebounds, and Francis Veejay Pre tallied 12 points and nine rebounds for the Fighting Maroons.
Down 30-37 midway through the second quarter, the Fighting Maroons slowly clawed their way back behind conversions from Payosing, Remogat, Nnoruka and Russel Ogana for a 46-45 halftime lead.
The Fighting Maroons continued their run in the second half as the lead reached 73-63 before they pulled away for good at 25 points on baskets by Payosing, Pre and Arvie Poyos.
Jared Bahay paced the Blue Eagles with 15 points, while rookie Kieffer Alas struggled with just 13 markers as they fell to a 1-1 mark. (Adrian Co)
