De La Salle University’s mighty tower has taken a hit as the University of the East stunned the defending champions.
The biggest story of the Sunday evening was how reigning MVP Kevin Quiambao missed two free throws that could have tied the match in the closing moments.
With the Green Archers staging a late rally – cutting a once 12-point deficit to just two with 2:59 left in the game – Quiambao was presented with a crucial opportunity to tie the score with 15.8 seconds remaining.
He was intentionally fouled by Ethan Galang, earning two free throws.
As he approached the line, Quiambao attempted to harness the crowd’s energy, urging the green-blooded fans to cheer for him.
However, he missed both shots.
The Red Warriors escaped with a 75-71 victory, handing the Green Archers their first loss of the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday evening at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
After the game, Quiambao offered no excuses, vowing to immediately head to the Enrique Razon Sports Complex to work on his free throws.
“Buong game kasi sobrang malas talaga, I mean off night talaga. I think pumasok lang sa isip ko is i-engage yung crowd para ma-hype up ako. Wala talaga eh, sablay lang talaga. Sablay is sablay,” he said.
“Papraktisin ko siya agad right after this pupunta na akong gym. Magfi-free throws ako.”
Despite the setback, Quiambao still led La Salle with 17 points, nine rebounds, and five assists against four turnovers.
However, he struggled throughout the game, shooting 6-of-17 from the field – including 1-of-8 from beyond the arc – and went 4-of-10 from the charity stripe.
The 6-foot-6 point-forward, who has been vocal about his role as a leader for the Green Archers, took part of the blame for the defeat that left them tied for second place with University of Santo Tomas at 3-1.
“I think mas gusto ng UE itong larong ito. Moving forward, ang dami naming learnings, especially sa akin. Ang dami kong free throws na namiss, kumbaga yung pag-lead by example ko, pasalungat eh,” Quiambao reflected.
“I need to be better, I need to learn more pa and dalhin itong learnings na nakuha namin sa game na ito.”
