Adamson Baby Falcons bench. –UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Adamson overcame University of Santo Tomas, 62-55, to secure its first Finals appearance in 20 years in the UAAP Season 85 juniors basketball tournament Tuesday at Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The top-ranked Baby Falcons, who last reached the championship round in 2003, flipped the switch in the third quarter, outscoring the Tiger Cubs, 16-9, to seize a 46-42 advantage.
UST was able to pull even at 49-all but Vince Reyes scored back-to-back baskets to cap Adamson’s 6-0 run that gave its side the lead for good.
A triple by Peter Rosillo allowed the Baby Falcos to take a safe 62-52 lead with 1:46 remaining.
“It’s a joyous moment. I’m happy for them,” said Adamson high school coach Mike Fermin. “We’re able to reach the Finals in the pre-season but this is a different atmosphere.”
Reyes led the Baby Falcons with 21 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals while Justine Garcia added 14 points, seven assists, and three steals.
The Tiger Cubs placed fourth in their first Final Four appearance since 2018.
Mark Llemit had 14 points and nine rebounds, while JP Pangilinan added 14 points, including three triples for UST.
The scores
AdU 62 – Reyes 21, Garcia 14, Edding 10, Rosillo 8, Bonzalida 5, Medina 3, Perez 1, Mepaña 0, Carillo 0, Abayon 0, Sajili 0.
UST 55 – Llemit 19, Pangilinan 14, Bucsit 8, Jumao-as 5, Manding 3, Ayon 2, Buenaflor 2, Zanoria 2.
Quarterscores: 18-11, 30-33, 46-42, 62-55