UAAP: Tough loss fuels Harold Alarcon, UP in big win over NU

UP guard Harold Alarcon during a win over NU in UAAP Season 88.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

UAAP SCHEDULE: Season 88 basketball tournament – second round

MANILA, Philippines—Guard Harold Alarcon used University of the Philippines’ loss to La Salle as motivation in their game against league-leading National University on Wednesday in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament.

Behind Alarcon, the Fighting Maroons opened their second round campaign on a high note with a 78-74 win and dealt the Bulldogs just their second loss in eight outings.

READ: UAAP: Harold Alarcon’s season-high pushes UP past NU

Alarcon starred with a season-high 24 points on top of four assists, three rebounds and a steal to help UP bounce back from their 72-69 loss to a depleted La Salle side without key cogs Mason Amos and Kean Baclaan last Sunday.

“We wanted to start the second round by setting the tone because we came from a loss,” the graduating guard said.

“We learned from our mistakes and lapses in that game and we brought those lessons here in this game.”

Before UP’s statement win over the league-leading Bulldogs, Alarcon struggled against the Green Archers, missing nine of his 14 shots from the field.

READ: UAAP: UP not overconfident in loss to depleted La Salle–coach

Aside from wanting to start the second round strong, Alarcon also cited one of his biggest motivations to be his final go-around with the Fighting Maroons.

“I need to play like my life depends on it because this is my last second round in the UAAP and this is my last year as well.”

The Fighting Maroons gained solo third place at 5-3, overtaking the Green Archers (4-3).