MANILA, Philippines — University of the Philippines overpowered Ateneo de Manila in the fourth quarter, 94-75, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Saturday to go 2-0 and take an early lead in the UAAP Season 89 men's basketball standings.
The Fighting Maroons pulled away from the gritty Blue Eagles with a 21-6 run, turning a 69-59 lead to an insurmountable 90-65 advantage following a Russel Ogana dunk in the last 2:11.
James Payosing came off the bench and unleashed 16 points, three rebounds, and two assists in just 15 minutes of action to lead UP, which couldn't shake off Ateneo especially in the first half.
Noy Remogat and VJ Pre put up 14 points apiece as Francis Nnoruka added 13 for the Maroons, who stayed as the only undefeated team entering a one week break.
Jared Bahay poured 17 points for the Blue Eagles who dropped to 1-1.
