Video by Noy Morcoso lll/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Defending champion De La Salle pulled away in the second half to beat University of the Philippines, 86-65, in the UAAP Season 77 men’s basketball tournament Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The win put the Green Archers, who broke loose from just a six-point halftime lead, back into a tie with idle Ateneo in first place with a 7-2 record.
Almond Vosotros found his touch and led La Salle, which hiked its winning streak to seven games, with a season-high 21 points on 8-of-14 shooting from the field. He also had four assists.
Big man Arnold Van Opstal played in his first game since missing the last five outings with an achilles injury.
Van Opstal announced his return with 12 points, missing only two of his seven attempts that went with eight rebounds. Jeron Teng had another all-around effort with 15 points, five rebounds and five assists.
JR Gallarza had 18 points for UP but only scored four points in the last two quarters.
La Salle outscored UP, 28-19, in the pivotal third period to take a 68-53 lead after three quarters.