QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The University of the Philippines (UP) solidified its hold on the top spot of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament after securing an 82-70 victory over Adamson University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, November 4.
Coming off a narrow 69-67 escape against the same opponent in the first round, the Fighting Maroons asserted control early. A dominant performance through the second and third quarters allowed UP to pull away, capped by a James Payosing layup that stretched the margin to 15 points at 59-44.
With the victory, UP improved its record to 8-2 and captured solo leadership, preventing National University (7-3) from catching up at the top. The triumph also extended the Fighting Maroons’ winning run to six games.
Adamson, meanwhile, absorbed its third consecutive defeat and dropped to a 4-6 record, sharing the standings with the University of Santo Tomas. The loss complicates the Final Four aspirations of both squads, though they remain within striking distance of De La Salle University (6-4), Far Eastern University (6-4), and Ateneo de Manila University (5-5).
James Payosing anchored UP’s balanced offensive effort with 15 points, five rebounds, and two steals. Noy Remogat contributed 12 points, six assists, and four rebounds, while Dikachi Ududo delivered a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Elliot Dimaculangan and Jacob Bayla added 11 and seven points, respectively.
On the losing side, Matthew Erolon paced the Soaring Falcons with 20 points and two steals, followed by Monty Montebon with 13 points. Ray Allen Torres and Matt Edding each chipped in 10 points.
Looking ahead, Adamson aims to snap its skid when it faces the University of the East on Saturday, November 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. On the same day, UP will look to stretch its win streak to seven games as it takes on traditional rival Ateneo at the same venue.