Adamson University rookie Matt Edding acknowledged the Falcons’ late-game lapses after they failed to complete their comeback against Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament.
Adamson trimmed Ateneo’s lead and stayed within striking distance before the Blue Eagles pulled away in the final quarter to secure a 73-68 victory at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.
Edding pointed to mistakes on both ends of the floor as the Falcons struggled to finish the game strongly.
“Siguro may mga lapses kami sa offensive at defensive part. Kaya hindi kami matured kanina sa dulo,” Edding said. “Nakahabol na kami pero hindi namin napatuloy. Babawi kami sa next game.”
Despite the loss, Edding emerged as one of Adamson’s top local scorers and said he was encouraged by the trust given to him by head coach Nash Racela to take offensive opportunities.
“First of all, ano naman talaga ako. Ako iyung taga-create ng shots sa amin,” Edding said. “Una-una, looking ako sa open teammatets. Pero kapag wala, iyun sa akin.”
Edding said Adamson’s inability to establish a stronger start also contributed to its fourth-quarter struggles. The Falcons had remained close through the first three quarters before Ateneo outscored them in the final period.
According to Edding, the team needs to become more aggressive earlier in games instead of repeatedly relying on late rallies.
“Yung first half talaga namin, dapat palagi. Dapat sa first half pa lang, madiin na kami,” he said. “Parang hindi kami nakahabol palagi. Kasi nung previous game namin versus FEU, ganun-ganun. Nagghahabol kami palagi. Siguro iyun ang kailangan i-adjust.”
The Falcons will have a one-week break before returning to action on October 3 against University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers. (Adrian Co)
