UAAP: Cyril Gonzales gives big lift as UP gets back at NU
UP’s Cyril Gonzales celebrates during a game against NU in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines-Cyril Gonzales was in a zone as University of the Philippines got back at National University, 75-63, on Sunday night for a firm grip of the lead in the UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball tournament.
The defense-oriented guard turned up his offense this time, delivering 12 of his 15 points in the fourth quarter highlighted by a huge dagger of a three with 47.3 seconds left that pierced through the heart of the Bulldogs.
“I just did what I have to do. My offense was just a bonus,” said Gonzales, who only scored a total of nine points in his first six games.
Zavier Lucero likewise found his range, nailing five threes and finishing with 16 points for the defending champion Maroons, whose only defeat so far this season came from the Bulldogs in the first round.
“It was a team effort and a step in the right direction. I’ll just do my best all the time, we have the best record in the league.”
James Spencer’s layup off a break pushed them ahead, 64-63, and the Maroons never looked back as the massive UP crowd celebrated a fourth straight win, their seventh overall in eight games at the start of the second round.
“Honestly, it’s not about getting back at NU. We just opened the second round and this will bring us closer to our goal,” said UP coach Goldwyn Monteverde, his Maroons seeking a second straight championship within the year.
Michael Malonzo had 12 points and Steve Enriquez added 11 for the Bulldogs, who dropped to 5-3 after turning over the ball four times in the closing minutes.
“We played for 30 minutes, this game was played for 40. They dictated the game and those turnovers were crucial during the last stretch,” said NU coach Jeff Napa.
The Scores:
UP 75 — Lucero 16, Gonzales 15, Spencer 11, Tamayo 8, Galinato 8, Diouf 5, Cagulangan 4, Abadiano 4, Fortea 3, Alarcon 1, Calimag 0, Ramos 0, Lina 0.
NU 63 — Malonzo 12, Enriquez 11, Yu 9, John 8, Baclaan 7, MAnansala 4, Galinato 3, Palacielo 3, Figueroa 2, Clemente 2, Minerva 2, Mahinay 0, Tibayan 0.
Quarters: 21-22, 37-40, 54-52, 75-63.
