UAAP: Adamson front court too much for UP

JERICHO Cruz of Adamson INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Adamson flaunted its huge edge in the front court in trumping University of the Philippines, 79-67, Sunday in the UAAP season 76 men’s basketball competition at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Falcons owned the paint as they almost doubled the Maroons’ total rebounds, 53-29 — and they also gave UP all it can handle in the lane as Jericho Cruz provided the nifty drives while Ingrid Sewa churned out the buckets off the post-up.

Cruz wound up with 19 points while the burly Cameroonian Sewa, in his debut game in the UAAP, notched a double-double with 15 points and 10 boards. Rodney Brondial added nine points and 10 rebounds.

“We were able to play with a big line up this game,” said head coach Leo Austria as Sewa’s arrival allowed Brondial to play at his natural spot at four.

“Our game plan was followed to the letter,” he added. “We can’t underestimate UP. I’m happy that we were able to control the game.”

Adamson took control of the lead for good late in the payoff period, but it wasn’t until midway in the fourth when it was able to shake off UP for good.

An 18 point-lead — the biggest of the Falcons’ — was cut down to just six, 55-49, as they allowed the Maroons to heat up and go on a dangerous 14-2 run.

They immediately reclaimed the edge, though, behind Cruz who came alive anew late in the third then capped Adamson’s pivotal run with a running hook with 5:28 to play for a 71-54 lead.

The Falcons never let the Maroons within single digits again from there.

“We don’t always win our opening game in the past. But we wanted to make sure that we win, I don’t want to be embarrassed on our first game of the season as hosts,” said Austria.

Tata Marata, playing his first game back in the UAAP after a 2-year absence, immediately made his impact for the Maroons with 20 points — but on a losing effort.