THE Adamson University Falcons prevented the Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles’s attempt at a clean sweep by routing the latter 62-46, in the 74th University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) seniors basketball tournament at the Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.
Led by Alex Nuyles, Janus Lozada and Lester Alvarez, Adamson played defensively nullifying the offense of the Blue Eagles anchored on Kirk Long, Greg Slaughter and Keifer Ravena.
The Falcons forced Ateneo to commit several turnovers and to miss several perimeter shots particularly in the final half. The Blue Eagles stretched the gap to its biggest, 52-32, with still 8:13 to go.
Adamson’s Coach Leo Austria was the happiest knowing the victory ended a 29-game losing streak of the Falcons to the Blue Eagles that began 1997. Their latest win gave the Falcons a 10-4 card and a solid hold on the second spot.
Despite the loss, their first in 14 matches, the Blue Eagles remain on top with a 13-1 slate. Both Ateneo and Adamson will enjoy the twice-to-beat incentives against separate foes in the Final-Four.
In the first game, the University of the East Red Warriors beat the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons 68-54.
Frank Calapre
Standing W L
Ateneo 13 1
Adamson 10 4
FEU 8 5
UST 8 5
NU 5 8
DLSU 5 8
UE 3 11
UP 2 12
