University of the Philippines weathered a late storm brought by University of Santo Tomas for a nail-biting 76-73 victory on Monday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, starting their title defense in the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup with a streak.
Already down by 12, 58-70, with just over four minutes left, the Growling Tigers went on a 15-4 run capped by Forthsky Padrigao’s booming triple. The run closed the gap to one, 74-73, with 3.5 seconds remaining.
However, Gerry Abadiano coolly sank his two free throws to give the Fighting Maroons a more comfortable three-point margin.
Off a timeout, UST still had time to make a play, but Christian Manaytay fumbled the ball.
That allowed UP to escape with their second straight win in the tournament, co-presented by Bostik El Heneral and ABC Tile Adhesive, and sponsored by Smart Sports, Strong Group Athletics, and Hanes.
Abadiano ended up with 13 points, while JD Cagulangan scored 18 points along with eight assists and two steals.
Francis Lopez contributed a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double.
“Importante lang para sa akin right now is maging respondent ka sa huli,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde. “Having these kinds of challenges early would make us better.”
The Growling Tigers were led by Leland Estacio with 16 points, while Padrigao finished with 13 points, six assists, three rebounds, and two steals.
Hinda Tounkara added 16 points and 13 boards.
UST dropped to 0-2, but not before putting up a fight against UAAP Season 86 finalists De La Salle University and UP in consecutive contests.
Bouncing back from their loss against FEU, University of the East overcame a slow start to eke out a 72-64 decision, spoiling National University’s supposed coming-out party.
Precious Momowei found no match and collected 27 points, 19 rebounds, and two blocks to carry the Red Warriors to a 1-3 standing.
He was supported by Wello Lingolingo and John Abate, who had 12 and 10 points, respectively.
“Tumama yung talo namin against FEU. Imagine, we controlled that game last week, but all of a sudden we lost,” said UE coach Jack Santiago.
The debuting Bulldogs were led by PJ Palacielo, who scored 14 points.
It was a different story for Emilio Aguinaldo College, which leaned on a furious fourth quarter against San Beda University to make a strong start, winning 76-67 in the NCAA group.
Nico Quinal led the Generals with 15 points and two steals, while Axel Doromal and King Gurtiza added 13 and 11 points, respectively.
RC Calimag was the lone Red Lion in double-digits with 11 points, as they absorbed their first loss in three games in the preseason showcase, also supported by Tela.com Athletics as official outfitter and Molten as the official game ball, as well as minor sponsors Reyes Barbecue, KFC, Brothers Burger, Wallem Philippines Shipping, Harbor Star Shipping Services, Akari, and KantiGo Sports.
Meanwhile, Basti Valencia’s 30-point outing powered Arellano University past San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 105-95.
Valencia also added six boards, two assists, and two steals, while Renzo Abiera contributed 18 points for the Chiefs, who are off to a surprising 2-0 start.
College of St. Benilde finally secured a win after three attempts, defeating Mapua University, 72-59, with Mowell Morales and Jhommel Ancheta combining for 21 points.
The Cardinals, still without NCAA Season 99 MVP Clint Escamis, fell to 1-2 despite the efforts of Chris Hubilla and MC Cuenco, who each scored 11 points.
The Golden Stags remained winless even after a 23-point performance from Reggz Gabat.
The Filoil Preseason is broadcast live on the Filoil EcoOil Sports Facebook page and YouTube channels, as well as on Smart Sports, Puso Pilipinas, and Smart Livestream.
