University of the Philippines’ James Payosing against Ateneo de Manila University in UAAP Season 89. UAAP Media.
MANILA (UPDATED) — University of the Philippines came alive in the second half to overwhelm Ateneo de Manila University, 94-75, in UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball on Saturday at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
James Payosing came alive with 16 points, three rebounds, and two assists as the Fighting Maroons outscored the Blue Eagles in the final two quarters, 48-30, to secure their second straight win in as many outings.
"Sabi ko sa team, hindi pwedeng magpa-bugbog kami," said the one-time NCAA Finals MVP from San Beda University, who scored 11 of his 16 points in the second half to help his squad dominate by as much as 25, 90-65.
State U head coach Goldwin Monteverde also pointed out that they adjusted on defense in the second half, with the Fighting Maroons limiting the Blue Eagles to just nine made field goals on 32 attempts in the same span.
"Pinag-usapan namin yung lapses namin on the defensive end, and the way the team took it, nakapag-adjust naman sila," explained Monteverde.
In addition, Veejay Pre also starred with 14 points, nine rebounds, and two assists, while Rey Remogat posted 14 points on three triples for UP, which has now won seven straight against Ateneo dating back to the second round of UAAP Season 86 in 2023.
Francis Nnoruka was also vital with 12 points, 13 rebounds, and a block, while Gani Stevens added nine points, 12 rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block.
Jared Bahay, meanwhile, finished with 17 points to keep Ateneo within striking distance in the first half, while Kieffer Alas posted 13 points but scored only three in the final two frames as the Blue Eagles absorbed their first loss in two games.
Travis Roberts contributed nine points and five rebounds, while Ian Espinosa and Sultan Baruwa finished with eight points each.
The Scores:
UP 94 — Payosing 16, Remogat 14, Pre 14, Nnoruka 12, Stevens 9, Ogana 7, Maga 6, Poyos 4, Alter 4, Yñiguez 4, Franco 4, Andres 0, Palanca 0, Briones 0, Bayla 0.
Ateneo 75 — Bahay 17, Alas 13, Roberts 9, Espinosa 8, Baruwa 8, Tuano 5, Leal 5, Urbina 3, Rogers 3, Bongo 2, Cainglet 2, Espina 0, Kapihe 0.
Quarterscores: 17-18, 46-45, 66-55, 94-75.