Pressured by Adamson’s Jerrick Ahanmisi, Rafael Chavez (right) of Arellano is forced to pass off. —AUGUST DELA CRUZ
Adamson University survived a close call and recovered just in time to drop Arellano University, 67-61, in the Filoil Flying V Preseason Cup Friday at the tournament’s namesake arena in San Juan.
The Falcons held a 50-38 lead at the end of the third but the Chiefs managed to make a game out of it, moving to within 62-61.
Papi Sarr came through on both ends to rescue Adamson, hitting two free throws to give the Falcons a 64-61 lead with 1:22 left then swatting away Archie Concepcion’s layup 21 seconds later.
Adamson head coach Franz Pumaren said his players have to experience those cardiac moments since such scenarios are vital for his team’s development.
“That’s why we’re here, we want the players to grow up, mature, and to adjust to certain scenarios,” said Pumaren, whose team improved to 3-1 in Group B. “They have to adjust to the pressure of the game.”
Letran continued its strong and ripped Jose Rizal University, 94-71, in the other game.
The Knights improved to a 3-2 record in Group B while the Heavy Bombers dropped to the cellar at 0-6.