University of the East has long lost its stature as the most feared school in the UAAP.
But from time to time, the Warriors of Recto managed to flash the discipline and form that had made them the winningest school in the premier collegiate league.
And yesterday was a great day for their loyal fans.
The Warriors hit two birds with one stone as they ended a 15-game losing skid with a 76-66 decision over Far Eastern University Wednesday in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament at the Philsports Arena.
A rip-roaring third quarter attack did wonders for a team desperate to regain the respect of their rivals after a winless campaign last season as they outscored the Tamaraws, 25-8.
That gave them a 63-44 advantage going into the final 10 minutes of play.
The Tamaraws did try to chase but the Warriors were not to be denied of a precious win that turned out like a beautiful music to their ears of their old fans.
The last time the Warriors won was on Oct. 30, 2019 when they beat the National University Bulldogs in a tense contest, 79-77.
Apart from putting an end to a string of disappointing defeats, the Warriors, who drew an inspired game from Kyle Paranada, also beat the Tamaraws for the first time since their 90-65 rout of long-time rivals on Sept. 30, 2018.
Paranada was solid for the Warriors finishing with 9-of-17 shooting and five assists.
UP WINS IN OT
Meantime, reigning champion University of the Philippines needed an extra five minutes to beat Adamson, 87-78.
Zav Lucero led four UP players in double figures with 15 points.
The scores:
First Game
UE 76 ˗ K. Paranada 25, Tulabut 9, Villegas 8, N. Paranada 8, Pagsanjan 7, Sawat 6, Payawal 5, Stevens 4, Alcantara 2, Antiporda 2, Remogat 0, Beltran 0.
FEU 66 ˗ Sleat 15, Añonuevo 10, Torres 8, Alforque 6, Bautista 6, Gonzales 5, Tempra 5, Tchuente 4, Gravera 3, Sandagon 2, Songcuya 2, Guibao 0, Ona 0.
Quarters: 18-19, 38-36, 63-44, 76-66.
Second Game
UP 87 Lucero 15, Diouf 13, Fortea 12, Tamayo 11, Alarcon 9, Gonzales 9, Spencer 8, Galinato 3, Ramos 3, Torculas 2, Calimag 2, Abadiano 0.
ADAMSON 78 Lastimosa 25, Douanga 11, V. Magbuhos 10, Sabandal 10, Hanapi 8, Yerro 4, Jaymalin 3, Manzano 2, Barasi 2, W. Magbuhos 2, Flowers 1, Colonia 0, Torres 0, Barcelona 0.
Quarters: 19-17, 31-47, 58-62, 74-74, 87-78.
