The University of the Visayas came storming right back from a double digit deficit to shock Naga College Foundation, 85-52, in the opening contest of the Philippine Collegiate Champions League Elite Eight Day Four at the Ynares Sports Arena Sunday afternoon, February 11.
Down by as many as 15 points, the Green Lancers outscored the Tigers 29-16 in the third quarter to finally tie the score at 59 apiece.
The fourth quarter was close, with neither team leading my more than six. Trailing 82-81 with less than a minute to play, Rey Suerte found Michael Maestre for the go-ahead basket. UV would hold on for the lead the rest of the way to complete the comeback bid.
Suerte had 30 big points to lead the Green Lancers on 54% shooting from the field. He also had 3 rebounds and two assists.
Four players were in double figures in scoring for NCF led by Jaymar Allarey’s 16.
University of the Visayas bows out of the tournament on a positive note with a 1-2 record in Group B action. NCF ends up winless at 0-3.
BOX SCORE (FIBA LiveStats):
University of the Visayas (85): Suerte 30, Sackor 13, Delator 8, Segumpan 8, Gahi 5, Napao 5, Cabahug 5, Maestre 6, Balabag 3, Soliva 2, Hassan 0, Albina 0, Butohan 0, Saga 0.
Naga Colege Foundation (82): Allarey 16, Ojoula 13, Lapinid 10, Margallo 10, Hermonio 8, Nebedum 7, Lawas 6, Magpantay 6, Mangubat 3, Olayvar 3, Padua 0.
QUARTERSCORES: 17-26, 30-43, 59-59, 85-82