The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons finally broke their silver medal curse, reclaiming the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball title with a thrilling 66-62 victory over dethroned champion La Salle Green Archers in a do-or-die Game 3 on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
After two consecutive seasons of falling short, the Maroons returned to the top of the UAAP basketball throne, securing their fourth overall title and their second in the last four years.
Francis Lopez, who had a shaky performance in the previous game, redeemed himself with a crucial three-pointer at the 1:12 mark, giving UP a 64-60 lead that they would not relinquish. The former Rookie of the Year finished with a solid all-around performance, tallying 12 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block.
Other key contributors to UP’s victory were Quentin Millora-Brown and JD Cagulangan. Millora-Brown, a one-and-done star, showcased his dominance with a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Cagulangan, in his final collegiate game, contributed 12 points, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 2 rebounds.
The Maroons controlled the game for most of the first half, leading 42-36 at the break. They extended their advantage in the third quarter, outscoring La Salle 12-4 to take a 54-40 lead.
However, the Green Archers staged a late comeback, spearheaded by two-time MVP Kevin Quiambao. La Salle trimmed the deficit to just two points, 61-59, with under two minutes remaining.
But Lopez’s clutch three-pointer sealed the deal for UP, silencing the crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
