Mark Gallano put on a double-double performance as University of Perpetual Help University upset a travel-weary National University in double overtime, 107-104, to jump start its title bid in the 11th Freego Cup held last Tuesday at the Buddhacare gym in Quezon City.
Sharp from afar and ferocious in the shaded lane, Gallano scored 23 points in an impressive 9-of-18 shooting from the field apart from grabbing 12 boards to help Perpetual rally from a 15-point down in the first quarter.
Visibly tired from a long travel from Vigan City last Sunday or one day since winning their second straight Palarong Pambansa gold medal, the Bullpups failed to produce the hustle and energy they are noted for in the two extra periods, thus allowing the Altalettes to escape with the win.
Five other Perpetual players scored eight points or more to underscore the team’ depth in the event also backed by Choi Garden, CW Home Depot, Powerhouse, and Hapee Toothpaste.
Winderlich Coyoca paced the Bullpups with 16 points as the 6-goot-7 Carl Tamayo and Gerry Abadiano were held to 15 and 14 points, respectively.
Equally impressive was Adamson which pulled off an 80-79 thriller over Malayan University – thanks to the solid 20-point performance of Adam Doria.
Also shining for the Baby Falcons were Ap Manlapaz, Joem Sabandal and Dedat Hanapi who combined for 41 points.
The day ended with another reversal as Jose Rizal University surprised former UAAP champion Far Eastern University, 67-58.
Jumilsun Portales led JRU’s well-balanced attack with 16 points, while Brian Sajonia posted 20 points in a losing effort for FEU.
