UAAP: Adamson escapes UE behind clutch plays from Ronzone, Medina
UAAP SCHEDULE: Season 88 basketball tournament
Adamson Falcons’ Austin Ronzone during a game against UE Red Warriors during a UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Adamson leaned on Austin Ronzone and rookie Earl Medina down the stretch to escape with a 56-53 win over the University of the East in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.
The Soaring Falcons nearly blew a late lead but delivered when it mattered most, extending their streak to three straight victories while keeping the Red Warriors winless.
READ: UAAP: Adamson clamps down on UST in upset
Adamson, now tied with Ateneo for fifth at 4-4, held off a depleted UE squad missing guard Wello Lingolingo and coach Chris Gavina, both serving suspensions.
Adamson Falcons’ John Medina during a game against UE Red Warriors in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
“We should be happy with where we are, only because we’re not out yet. Our heads are still above water,” said Falcons coach Nash Racela. “Today wasn’t pretty, but at least we got the win.”
UE grabbed its first and only lead, 50-49, after a 7-2 run capped by a DJ Robles putback with 2:55 left. But Ronzone responded with a right-corner triple, followed by a jumper from Medina for a 54-50 cushion.
READ: UAAP: Frustration builds for Adamson after another late collapse
John Abate had a chance to pull UE closer but turned the ball over and missed a three-pointer in the closing seconds. Matty Erolon iced it with two free throws as UE’s skid stretched to 14 games dating back to last season.
Ronzone posted 11 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. Manu Anabo added eight points and eight boards, while AJ Fransman and Erolon chipped in seven each.
Abate led UE with 16 points and eight rebounds, while Precious Momowei finished with 15 points and 14 boards.
Adamson faces UST at 2 p.m., while UE tries to end its slump against La Salle at 4:30 p.m.
