MANILA – Far Eastern University and University of the East secured their second victories to share the lead with De La Salle-Zobel in the UAAP Season 87 high school basketball tournament at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Saturday.
The Baby Tamaraws, led by Prince Cariño’s 14 points and nine rebounds, defeated National University Nazareth School, 89-71.
CP Miranda also delivered 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
Mark Dulin, Duke Santos, and Carl Diaz chipped in 11 points each while Anton Lopez had 10 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and two steals.
Yujin Peña finished with 18 points, 11 rebounds and three assists for the Bullpups who remained winless after two matches, along with the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Maroons and the Adamson University Baby Falcons.
“Our motivation, what we teach our players, is to return our defense from backcourt to frontcourt,” Baby Tamaraws assistant coach Arwind Santos said.
“Our pressure defense, that is the priority. It doesn’t matter who we face. We are focused in the talent and skill of the players,” added the former King Tamaraw who was a two-time Most Valuable Player in the men’s division.
Meanwhile, Filipino-Nigerian Goodluck Okebata came up with 17 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks in leading the Junior Warriors to a 91-44 win over the Fighting Maroons.
“That’s why we recruited him. We know his potential. He has a bright future, he knows that. I don't need to praise him. He’s a hard worker. What you see on the court, he is two times in practices. That’s why he’s like that,” coach Andrew Estrella said about the 14-year-old Okebata, who has Ilonggo roots.
Neil Garcia contributed 14 points and seven rebounds while Gab Delos Reyes added 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Jared Ferreros and Jolo Pascual chipped in 10 points apiece.
Jhustin Hallare led UPIS with 21 points, eight rebounds and two assists while Bruce Tubongbanua added 14 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. (PNA)
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