De La Salle University dominated the Japan University Basketball Federation (JUBF) select team, cruising to an 88-75 victory to book a spot in the 2025 World University Basketball Series (WUBS) Final on Sunday at the National Yoyogi Stadium Second Gymnasium.
The Green Archers will face the winner of the Nippon Sports Science University–Korea University matchup, with the championship game set for Monday.
Last year, La Salle claimed the WUBS title after defeating Korea U, 101-86.
The defending champions showcased their dominance early, particularly in the second quarter.
After holding a slim 19-17 lead at the end of the opening frame, La Salle unleashed an 18-5 run to take control.
By halftime, they had limited JUBF to just seven points in the period on 3-of-18 shooting, building a commanding 41-24 advantage.
From there, the Japanese squad never mounted a serious challenge.
Kean Baclaan led La Salle with 18 points, while Michael Phillips delivered a double-double of 13 points, 13 rebounds, and two blocks.
Doy Dungo and Earl Abadam chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively. All Green Archers, except EJ Gollena, scored in the game.
Kouki Ishikawa paced five JUBF players in double figures with 14 points.
The Scores:
DLSU 88 – Baclaan 18, Phillips 13, Dungo 11, Abadam 10, Melencio 8, Cortez 7, Daep 6, Marasigan 5, Macalalag 5, Amos 3, Pablo 2, Gollena 0.
JUBF 75 – Kouki 14, Ejirou 11, Kento 10, Shogo 10, Hiroto 9, Leona 8, Takumi 2, Riku 0, Eiji 0, Shin 0.
Quarterscores: 19-17, 41-24, 66-54, 88-75.
