Adamson University finally entered the win column of the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup by spoiling Ateneo de Manila University’s debut, 61-59, on Friday in San Juan.
Cedrick Manzano spearheaded the Soaring Falcons with a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Manu Anabo supported him with 10 points and three rebounds.
“Sa amin, as much as we can, we give them exposure, we give them minutes,” coach Nash Racela said, referring to his rebuilding Adamson squad looking to move forward from the Jerom Lastimosa era.
With the Blue Eagles in the driver’s seat through the first three quarters, the Soaring Falcons battled back in the final canto, sparking an 8-0 blitz to knot the score at 50-all.
The two teams then traded baskets before Manzano’s layup in the dying seconds sealed the deal.
Leading the effort for Ateneo was Chris Koon, who registered an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double laced with three assists.
Shaun Tuaño also added 13 points as they stumbled out of the gates of the tournament co-presented by Bostik El Heneral and ABC Tile Adhesive, with major sponsors including Smart Sports, Strong Group Athletics, and Hanes.
Meanwhile, University of the Philippines leaned on a strong second half to defeat University of the East, 71-60, keeping its slate clean through three tries in the UAAP bracket.
Gerry Abadiano secured 21 points and five rebounds, with ample help from Francis Lopez (12) and Mark Belmonte (9).
Despite the loss that dropped them to 2-2, Precious Momowei logged a double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Wello Lingolingo supported him with 11 points and six rebounds.
In a rematch of the NCAA Season 99 Finals, Mapua University exacted revenge on San Beda University, 67-64, to bounce back into the win column.
NCAA MVP Clint Escamis continued to shine for the 2-2 Cardinals with 19 points, five steals, and four rebounds, followed by Jeco Bancale, who registered 10 points.
James Payosing tallied 11 points, two rebounds, and one assist in his first game back, while Jomel Puno notched 10 points in the Red Lions’ second straight loss following a 2-0 start to the preseason showcase, also supported by Tela.com Athletics as the official outfitter and Molten as the official game ball, with minor sponsors including Reyes Barbecue, KFC, Brothers Burger, Wallem Philippines Shipping, Harbor Star Shipping Services, Akari, and KantiGo Sports.
Nico Quinal scored 19 points, including two crucial daggers in the final frame, to help Emilio Aguinaldo College stay flawless in the NCAA bracket with an 80-77 escape against Arellano University.
Quinal also had four rebounds and was supported by King Gurtiza, who had 11 points.
On the other hand, Lorenz Capulong provided 16 points and seven rebounds for the Chiefs, who suffered their first setback in three games.
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.
