Physicality in win over UE learning experience for La Salle

FILE Photo – La Salle Green Archers vs UE Red Warriors. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

De La Salle University put on a commanding performance against University of the East, 97-75, to stay unscathed in the 2016 Filoil Flying V Preseason Premier Cup Friday at San Juan Arena.

The Green Archers may have kept their clean slate, but they went home battered and bruised in a game that recorded 58 total fouls, some of which were unsportsmanlike.

Green Archers head coach Aldin Ayo knows there would be a degree of physicality even in a summer league but it’s all part of a learning experience for the team.

“Told them they just have to be tough and tough players are able to absorb all adversities,” said Ayo who experienced similar plays in a Davao tournament they played in. “Natuto kami sa Davao kasi dun binugbog talaga kami.”

Physicality, though, played favors for the Green Archers as they limited the Red Warriors to a paltry 27-of-82 shooting while they cruised to an easier 29-of-69 clip good for 44 percent.

Ben Mbala asserted his dominance over the Red Warriors filling up the stat sheets with 24 points, 15 rebounds, four steals, and four blocks.

Jeron Teng matched his center’s scoring putting up 24 points of his own while Thomas Torres added 13 points and Abu Tratter 12 points and grabbing eight boards.

Alvin Pasaol had 13 points and seven rebounds to lead the 1-1 Red Warriors.