UE holds off Adamson behind Roi Sumang

MANILA, Philippines – Roi Sumang took matters into his own hands to lift University of the East to its first win at the expense of Adamson, 71-66, Wednesday in the UAAP Season 75 men’s basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Sumang flourished in the clutch en route to a game-high 18 points, 16 of which came in the second half.

“I can’t explain. I’m so happy [to win]. Especially to the UE community. We just have to find a way to win. We never gave up,” said UE head coach Jerry Codinera.

The Red Warriors came out of their halftime huddle smoking and left the Falcons in the dust, 47-29, with 3:08 left in the third.

But it only took a matter of time before Adamson pulled to within three thrice but couldn’t come further, not with 23 misses at the free-throw line overall and six straight down the stretch.

“I just kept my composure and for the players, there will always be a run. Cabrera was getting his shots and we had a problem with that. In transition we found a way to sprint back,” said Codinera.

Codinera also commended his bench.

“I always tell the boys that it’s going to be hard for us to win with only two to three guys, dapat collective effort.”

Rey Sumido added 12 points while Gene Belleza and Adrian Santos chipped in with 11 and 10 points respectively.

UE and Adamson are now tied at 1-5.

Roider Cabrera came through with 16 points after an atrocious 0-of-10 shooting from downtown the last time out while Rodney Brondial notched a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds for Adamson.