Far Eastern University (FEU) earned its first victory in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88 basketball, grinding out a 64-58 triumph over Adamson University on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Janrey Pasaol came through in the clutch, sinking a crucial corner three-pointer that halted Adamson’s comeback from 11 points down. Pasaol’s shot gave the Tamaraws a two-possession lead, 64-58, with 1:33 remaining.
FEU managed the clock effectively and Adamson missed its only two attempts in the final stretch.
‘We could have easily felt pretty down about ourselves but what I like about my guys was after the disappointing loss to La Salle, we actually worked even harder,’ said FEU coach Sean Chambers.
FEU built an eight-point cushion, 61-53, with 3:02 left, but Adamson responded.
Mathew Montebon hit a three-pointer and followed it up with a smooth pick-and-roll play with Cedrick Manzano to cut the deficit to 58-61 with 1:49 to go.
The Tamaraws held firm to snap their three-game losing streak and improve to 1-3, tying Adamson at sixth place. Both teams sit ahead of winless University of the East.
Gambian center Mo Konateh had with 18 points, 21 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. Rookie Kirby Mongcopa added 15 points and five rebounds, while Pasaol contributed 13 points, six rebounds, and five assists.
They carried the scoring load as top gunner Jorick Bautista was held to just two points.
‘I’m really thankful to Coach Sean because he’s the only one in my whole career who’s given me that much confidence. Even in practice, I make sure to repay the trust he gives me,’ Pasaol said.
FEU will look to build on this momentum when it faces defending champion University of the Philippines next Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
Montebon was Adamson’s lone bright spot with 14 points and seven rebounds. Eli Erolon added nine points but shot just 3-of-12 from the field. Manzano finished with three points, four rebounds, and three turnovers in nearly 20 minutes of play.
The Soaring Falcons, now on a two-game slide, aim to bounce back against National University on Wednesday, still at the MOA Arena.