The Adamson Soaring Falcons failed to secure their first victory in the season opener against the UST Growling Tigers, 60-69, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, October 1, 2022.
The España-based team made it difficult for the San Marcelino squad to kick off a win, with forward Nic Cabañero putting on a show scoring a career-high of 33 points.
"Sobrang overwhelmed and blessed po ako kasi pinagdadasal ko ito. Lagi kong pinagdadasal na ibigay sa amin 'yung first win, hindi lang first win, these upcoming games rin kasi ito kasi ang magdi-dictate sa amin in the future," (I am so overwhelmed and blessed since I prayed for this. I always prayed that this game would be our first win, not only this match but also these upcoming games, because it will dictate our future.) said Cabañero, who turned nineteen this Monday.
The 42-38 lead in the first half boosted the drive for the Growling Tigers in an eventual 48-44 advantage after both teams chipped in six points facing the fourth quarter.
Joshua Yerro and Lena Dounga paced with 13 points each for the Soaring Falcons, with Jerom Lastimosa finishing off a three-pointer with a minute left to keep a close battle at 60-63.
However, it was not enough to conquer Cabañero, as the missed free throws, turnovers, and three-point shots of the Soaring Falcons deflected their chance to get ahead of the prevailing team.
The Growling Tigers kept their offense with Cabañero pulling off a jumper before a split contribution of free throws from Paul Manalang and Christian Manatay.
Cabañero completely iced the game, draining his two freebies to decline Adamson on the charity stripe.
The debut win of the Growling Tigers was also a triumph for its new head coach, a homegrown champ of the University of Sto. Tomas, Bal David.
Catch the Adamson Soaring Falcons bounce back in their next game opposite UP Fighting Maroons on October 5, 1 PM at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
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