All the praise may have gone to Kevin Quiambao when the final buzzer sounded in La Salle’s thrilling 76-75 victory over University of the Philippines on Wednesday evening.
Still, the reigning back-to-back MVP was quick to deflect the glory to someone else.
The Green Archers appeared to be on the brink of defeat in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Basketball Finals.
With the defending champions on the verge of being overwhelmed by the Fighting Maroons, it was Mike Phillips who stepped up and brought them back to life.
The Mythical Five member’s electrifying 14-point explosion in the first quarter – coupled with his stifling defense on UP star Quentin Millora-Brown – kept La Salle within striking distance.
His efforts set the stage for Quiambao’s clutch back-to-back triples in the fourth quarter, which ultimately stole the headlines.
But while Quiambao’s heroics lit up the highlight reels, it was Phillips who delivered the go-ahead basket in the final stretch to secure the 76-75 lead – a play that was as pivotal as it was overlooked.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Si Mike is a once-in-a-lifetime player. Kumbaga, golden player ‘yan sa DLSU – student-athlete, maka-Diyos,” Quiambao said.
“Sa team namin, isa siya sa mga leader. Siya yung focal point namin palagi.”
For the past four seasons, Phillips has been an integral part of La Salle’s program.
Since his rookie year in Season 84, the 6-foot-8 big man has transformed from a raw, athletic, and scrappy prospect into a versatile force.
His evolution in Season 87 has been nothing short of remarkable, with sharpened defensive instincts, improved ball-handling, and an expanded shooting range making him a player La Salle can rely on in every crucial moment.
Beyond his on-court contributions, Phillips has fully embraced La Salle’s culture.
His unwavering faith and dedication to the team have made him the heart and soul of the Green Archers – a role he cherishes and embodies to the fullest.
“Siya yung heart and soul ng La Salle basketball team, hindi ako.
“So kay Kuya Mike, credit sa’yo. I know pinaghirapan mo to lahat. I’m so blessed na maging teammate mo,” Quiambao added.
As the Green Archers prepare for the decisive Game 3 on Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum, Quiambao and Phillips are ready to take the court together one last time in Season 87.
And together, they aim to deliver La Salle’s second consecutive championship.
