ATENEO de Manila University held off Adamson University, 73-68, to bounce back in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.
Jared Bahay poured in 18 points including the insurance free throws in the last 11 seconds to lead the Blue Eagles, who recovered from their loss to the UP Fighting Maroons last Saturday.
Bahay added six rebounds and five assists to his name while Travis Roberts aided him with 14 points and three rebounds.
“Every team here is capable of beating the other team,” said Ateneo head coach Louie Alas, reflecting on the hard-fought game.
“We have to go to the game well-prepared especially against Adamson which is a very well-coached team. Thank God for this win, never-ending praise in God.”
Ian Espinosa chipped in 10 points, three rebounds, and three assists for Ateneo which rose to a 2-1 slate for second place at press time.
The Blue Eagles led for the most part before the Soaring Falcons mounted a comeback in the crucial stretch.
Bahay came through with timely baskets and free throws to keep Adamson at bay.
Kieffer Alas added seven points, eight rebounds, and three assits as Andrew Bongo put up nine markers and four boards.
Precious Jonah logged 17 points and eight rebounds for the Soaring Falcons, who dropped to 1-1 for a share of third place with the UST Growling Tigers.
Mat Edding backstopped him with 12 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
Ray Allen Torres and Earl Medina chipped in 12 and seven points, respectively.
