Adamson University snapped Ateneo de Manila University’s four-game winning streak with a 58-52 triumph in their UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball matchup at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Saturday.
The victory served as a warm-up for the Lady Falcons ahead of their stepladder showdown against the Blue Eagles, with the winner advancing to face the UST Growling Tigresses in the second phase.
Meanwhile, the NU Lady Bulldogs have already secured their spot in the Finals after a dominant elimination-round sweep.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“For us, this is something we can use moving forward—getting the momentum, building more confidence, and at the same time just making the feel of playing against Ateneo because we’re aware that we’re gonna play them again after the win of NU this morning,” said Adamson head coach Ryan Monteclaro.
The Lady Falcons pulled away early in the fourth quarter, courtesy of Elaine Etang and Cris Padilla, who sparked a run that stretched their lead to 15 points, 54-39.
However, Ateneo refused to go quietly, with Junize Calago, Kacey Dela Rosa, and Aly Eufemiano orchestrating a late rally to trim the deficit to just five, 49-54, with 1:48 remaining.
Adamson kept its composure down the stretch as Etang and Kem Adeshina delivered crucial back-to-back baskets, extending the lead to 58-49 with 31 seconds left to secure the win.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The Lady Falcons locked in the third seed, ending the elimination round with a 9-5 record.
Monteclaro gave all 16 players minutes, with Novie Ornopia leading the team with 10 points and five rebounds.
Etang added nine points, while Adeshina chipped in eight points and five boards.
Ateneo concluded the eliminations with an 8-6 record, led by reigning MVP Kacey Dela Rosa’s standout performance.
Dela Rosa tallied 15 points and 19 rebounds, becoming the first player since Season 79 Men’s MVP Ben Mbala to record a double-double in all 14 elimination-round games.
Calago, back from suspension, posted an impressive 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Sarah Makanjuola also had a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds for the Blue Eagles.
Adamson now looks to carry its momentum into the stepladder semifinals as both teams gear up for their rematch with higher stakes on the line.
The Scores:
AdU 58 – Ornopia 10, Etang 9, Adeshina 8, Apag 6, Padilla 6, A. Alaba 5, E. Alaba 5, Manlimos 3, Mazo 2, Limbago 2, Agojo 2, Meniano 0, Bajo 0, Delos Santos 0, Cortez 0, Trabado 0.
Ateneo 52 – Dela Rosa 15, Calago 13, Makanjuola 11, Villacruz 6, Oani 3, Batongbakal 2, Eufemiano 2, Cruza 0, Cancio 0, Olivenza 0, Lopez 0, Angala 0, Aguirre 0.
Quarterscores: 19-13, 33-28, 47-39, 58-52.
